Teenager James Clarridge is aiming to follow in the footsteps of Joe Worrall after taking the “big step” of signing his first professional contract with Nottingham Forest.
The 17-year-old defender has been with the Reds for the past decade, progressing through the ranks - and hopes to eventually make his way into the first-team.
"I'm excited to continue my time with the club,” Clarridge said.
“My first professional contract is a big step for me and my family and it's a really proud moment for us all.
"I've been with Forest since I was six or seven years old, after being spotted playing for my local team, and I've managed to work my way through the ranks over the years.
"I feel I've developed a lot, especially over the last year since becoming a full-time scholar, and the attributes we have around the academy are really useful for me as a player.”
Forest have a proud tradition of bringing talented youngsters into the senior set-up from the Nigel Doughty Academy.
Worrall, Ryan Yates and Alex Mighten were regularly involved under Chris Hughton during the season just gone, while the likes of Brennan Johnson, Jordan Gabriel and Tyrese Fornah will hope to return from loan spells to play their part next term.
Clarridge says he is looking to emulate Worrall in particular as he sets his sights on the future.
The centre-back has picked up plenty of game time for Forest’s Under-18s and Under-23s in recent months, and has represented England at Under-15 and Under-17 level.
"You look at the first-team and see the likes of Joe Worrall who followed a similar pathway to myself, and it's good to know that those opportunities will be there if I can reach those sorts of levels," Clarridge added, in an interview with the club website.
"He's someone that I really look up to."
