Young centre-half Aidan Collins is targeting next season as the year he makes his mark at first team level. The 18-year-old made his senior debut at Derby on the final day of the 2002/03 season but injuries and illness have slowed his progress since then.

Collins told the club site: "It's the last year of my contract, so it's a big, big year for me.

"It's been a frustrating time for me over the last few years, what with a couple of bad injuries and being ill as well, so it's vital that I hit the ground running when we return to pre-season training.

"My form at the end of last year was quite good, certainly the Youth Cup games helped me, and now I'm looking forward to getting back and playing football again.

"It's important for me that I push hard from day one of the season, play in the friendlies and, hopefully, force my way into the squad on a regular basis and get some first team games under my belt.

"I'm really hopeful that I can play my part in helping the club get back in the Premiership next year."

The Town squad are due back at Portman Road for pre-season training on July 4th.

Photo: Action Images

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