Young Luton defender agrees new contract ahead of loan move to Daggers
Aidan Francis-Clarke, a graduate of the Hatters’ development department, has signed a new deal with the club ahead of a season-long loan transfer to National League side Dagenham & Redbridge.
The 19-year-old centre-half, who was on the bench for West Ham United’s 2-1 Premier League defeat last night as well as the opening game at Brighton & Hove Albion, has joined the Daggers ahead of their home match against AFC Fylde this afternoon.
Francis-Clarke spent the season on loan with St Albans City, where he helped the Saints reach the play-off final.
“We believe Aidan has a very bright future at the club, and I’m delighted he has signed a new contract,” Town manager Rob Edwards said on the club’s official website.
“He’s a strong, young defender who will gain valuable experience at Dagenham.”
“It’s been an absolute pleasure to work with Aidan and it’s great to see that his work ethic and dedication is paying off with a new contract and the involvement he’s had in and around the first tea squad this summer,” development squad coach Adrian Forbes added.
“From an Academy standpoint, with Joe Johnson also on the first team, it’s great to see that we’re doing things correctly.”
“Aidan deserved this, but he knows it’s only the first step in a long journey, and it’s also a message to the rest of his teammates in the 21s that there is no glass ceiling.”
