United youngster extends contract until 2008

Manchester United youngster Ritchie Jones has signed a new two-year contract, keeping him at Old Trafford until June 2008.

The 19-year-old midfielder, who was handed his first-team debut in the 4-1 Carling Cup demolition of Barnet last October, was an integral part of the reserve side which claimed a treble last term.

The Red Devils second-string claimed the Reserve League Shield, Manchester Senior Cup and FA Premier Reserve League North.

“My new contract gives me the chance to stay at Old Trafford and work with some fantastic coaches and players – you can’t get any better than learning from Sir Alex Ferguson and the rest of the staff here,” said Jones.

“Hopefully I will get a few more run-outs in the first team next season and build on things from there.”