AIDEN CHIPPENDALE is a surprise inclusion in Town’s squad for today’s League I clash at Colchester United.

The 17-year-old academy left winger, handed the No34 shirt by Lee Clark, has made a bright start to the season.

Chippendale has scored three times at FA Premier Academy League level, including one in last Saturday’s 3-0 victory at Leeds.

And he caught the eye in this week’s private friendly against Celtic at the Galpharm, which Town won 2-1 with a double from Robbie Simpson.

Clark said: “I’ve been impressed every time I’ve seen Aiden in action.

“And I’ve also had some glowing reports from (development coach) Paul Stephenson and (academy chief) Graham Mitchell.

“He did particularly well against Celtic and this trip will be a great experience for him.”

Born in May 1992, Chippendale was originally attached to hometown club Bradford City, but joined Town aged 13.

He is currently a second-year academy scholar, with his inclusion for Colchester ruling him out of today’s junior clash against Middlesbrough at Storthes Hall (12.00).

League II club Crewe Alexandra have parted company with manager Gudjon Thordarson.