Notts County hand pro deals to Brad McGowan and Harry Andrews

Both players experienced two impressive seasons in the U18s and were rewarded with a place in manager Shaun Derry’s first team squad for the new campaign.

McGowan was this season’s youth team skipper and led by example with a series of top showings in defence for both the U18s and the development squad.  

Andrews is rated as one of the best goalkeepers in the North East Youth Alliance and built upon a strong first season with a collection of confident displays.

Derry told the club’s official site: “I’m delighted that both players have been offered this opportunity and hope that they take it with both hands.

“Clearly they have been the outstanding players in their age group over the past two years but I’ve not only offered them this opportunity on their ability alone - I’ve also offered them this opportunity because of their character, too.

“This is the start of hopefully a long career for them both but it’s only a start.”

He continued: “I’d like to thank the lads who sadly haven’t been offered a contract and wish them well in their future careers.

“When one door shuts, another opens and let’s hope that their experience over the last two years enables them to succeed elsewhere.”

Second-year scholars Elliot Hodge, Kieran Geldenhuys, Tyler Guy, Jack Golding and Glodi Bange have not been offered professional deals.

The club would like to thank all five players for their efforts in the Black and White stripes and wish them all the best in their footballing careers.

Look out for a round-up of the season with both Academy manager Mick Leonard and head of Academy coaching Andy McMillan on Magpie Player soon.