DEFENDER Canice Carroll has signed a professional contract with Oxford United.

The 17-year-old has agreed a two-and-a-half year deal with the U’s.

It marks a good week for the teenager who has now joined up with the Republic of Ireland under 17 squad for a training camp.

Carroll, who has been with the club since he was nine, initially agreed terms with United in August.

He said: "It was great to be offered it a while back, and then to sign just after my 17th birthday is a big day.

"I’d like to thank the coaches, and my family, for the support they have given me along the way, and now it’s up to me to keep working at my game and make sure I make the most of the opportunity."

Head coach Michael Appleton added: "Canice is only a first year scholar but he has a lot of potential and has done well whenever he has stepped up to train with the first team.

"He has a great attitude and he knows that the hard work starts here, having signed a pro contract."