Jordan Rhodes, son of goalkeeper-coach Andy Rhodes, is the first youngster confirmed to be amongst the academy's 2006/07 intake of full-time scholars. The 16-year-old striker has already made his reserves debut and has been prolific for both the U16s and U18s this season.

Rhodes, a pupil at Kesgrave High School, has signed a three-year contract, a two-year academy scholarship with the third a one-year professional deal.

Town took Rhodes from Barnsley's youth set-up for £5,000 in March 2005, nine months after his father joined the club as a coach.

Last month, Rhodes Jnr scored hat-tricks in successive weeks against Charlton and Norwich for the U16s, and then a brace for the U18s against Fulham a week later.

Other players likely to be in the new intake are Edward Upson, scorer of the FA Youth Cup-winning goal last season, England U17 defender Kurt Robinson, midfielder Jai Reason and Jack Ainsley, brother of the recently released Stuart, while the Blues are still keen on Icelander Viktor Unnar Illugason. The striker has had several spells on trial with Town but has also spent time with Reading.

Another youngster who has been on trial at Playford Road on a number of occasions over the last couple of years is New Zealander Tommy Smith, a central defender. Town usually unveil their new academy scholars in April.

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