Preston North End goalkeeper signs two-year pro deal

Pradic, who recently turned 17 and still has a year left of his scholarship, has penned a two-year-deal and North End have the option of a third.

The Welshman has consistently impressed manager Ryan Lowe during his time at Deepdale and was taken on the pre-season tour of Spain.

Pradic has not had any minutes this summer but has been with the first team squad every step of the way.

He was an important player for PNE U19s last season, signing following his release from Charlton Athletic, as they won the league and cup and is a regular for the Wales U17s.

Pradic told the PNE website: “I’m very, very pleased to get it signed. I’ve only been here for a year so to sign it in the first year is really good.

“I want to learn as much as I can, train up here as much as I can, but also I want to try and play as much as I can as well.

“I understand, I know my position in the club. Obviously play time for a third choice ‘keeper is not always guaranteed, but obviously I’ve got the academy games and the reserve games so I’m really looking forward to this year.”

PNE boss Lowe has been impressed by Pradic’s attitude since joining up with the first team and his approach to stepping up.

Lowe said: “James is someone who joined us at the start of pre-season, and he’s handled himself really well.

“He’s another young prospect who’s shown he’s not intimidated by our environment, and training with Mike Pollitt (goalkeeping coach), Freddie Woodman and Dai Cornell everyday is only going to help him become a better player.

“So we’re pleased we’ve tied him down for at least a couple of years and we’ll see how he does in the coming years at Preston North End.”