Frontline prospect Flo Bojaj has signed a contract extension at Huddersfield Town.
The new deal to 2017, on which the club have the option of adding another 12 months, comes in the wake of the 19-year-old’s emergence on the first-team scene.
But Town say it was already in the pipeline due to his performances at development level.
The former Albanian Under 17 international, whose previous contract would have ended in June, has come off the bench in Town’s last two games, against MK Dons and Derby County.
And he’s pushing for a third appearance in Saturday’s Championship clash at Burnley.
Town manager Chris Powell said: “Flo recently got his opportunity due to James Vaughan’s suspension.
“The Championship is a tough division and players have to be able to cope with the level, so Flo did well to impress.
“It’s important now that everyone keeps their feet on the ground, him included.
“He has shown promise at Under 21 level and in his two senior appearances, but he needs to continue to work hard and improve under Frankie Bunn’s coaching so he can be ready to take his next opportunity.”
Bunn, Town’s senior professional development coach, added: “Flo deserves his extended contract.
“It was actually being worked on before he made his debut for the first team due to the performances he’s put in for the development side.
“Flo has improved greatly during his time at the club. He’s a hard worker on the training pitch and has improved his fitness and footballing ability.
“He’s a clever footballer who brings his teammates into play, plus – importantly for a striker – he knows where to be to score goals.
“We’ll continue to work with him so he improves even further, but it’s great that he has already made such a good impression with the club and the fans.
“Everyone knows the club wants and needs young players come through into the first team and Flo’s foray has given a boost to him and his Under 21 teammates.”
Bojaj, who was born in Kosovo but moved to England with his parents at a young age, is in his second year as a professional.
He was signed from Hertfordshire junior team Borehamwood Youth.
Bojaj formed a prolific partnership with Jake Charles as the Under 18s won the Professional Development League II title in 2014.
Last season, he helped the Under 21s reach their PDL II play-off final, scoring eight goals in 24 starts and a further eight substitute appearances.
