Academy central defender Chris Casement has been offered a two-year professional contract at Portman Road. The Northern Ireland U19 international was one of the stars of last season's FA Youth Cup win, particularly excelling in the second leg of the final at Portman Road.

The 18-year-old told the club site: "Things have been going well for me this season and obviously I'm delighted to be offered a two-year contract here.

"Being on the pre-season tour gave me a great lift, being away with the first team and speaking to the experienced players like Jim Magilton and Jason De Vos.

"It's a great club to be at and the manager has proved that he will give young players a chance. I've got to keep working hard now and hope I can break into the first team squad myself."

Casement came on as a sub for the Northern Irish U19s in a friendly in Switzerland last Wednesday, his side losing 3-1.

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