Academy defender James Krause has signed his first one-year professional contract with the Blues. Krause was offered the deal by former manager Joe Royle back in April after recovering from surgery.

The 19-year-old told the club site he is looking to have an injury free 2006/07: "I had an ankle operation last year and missed four months of the season, but this is a great way to start the new one.

"I was on the bench for the final game of the season at Plymouth and that gave me a taste of what the first team is like and that has to be my target for next year; to break into the senior side.

"I have played mainly in the middle but I know I will have to bulk up a bit and grow a few inches if I'm going to play there.

"I started at left-back though, and that might be the best place for me. We are short on numbers in that position with Scott Barron probably the only natural left-back in the squad.

"He did really well last season, but hopefully I can put pressure on him for that place when the season gets going."

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