As one young hopeful takes his next step towards football fame at Fratton Park, others will have to look elsewhere to do the same.

Teenage forward Harry Clout has signed his first professional deal six months after his senior debut, made in coming off the bench in an FA Cup third round tie at Wycome.

Clout was among the substitutes for Championship games against Luton, Middlesbrough and Bristol City, a sign that John Mousinho and the club as a whole rated him.

Now he has a new deal - but scholars Cody Howard, Jayden Keteku, Connor May and Luke Staight do not.

Academy manager Greg Miller told the club website: 'I’d like to wish Cody, Jayden, Connor and Luke the very best for the future. Their efforts throughout their scholarship have been excellent and I thank them on behalf of all the staff.

'We are also delighted that, in the elite level of a Championship football club, we have witnessed strong performances and progression from Harry and, as such, he has been offered a professional contract.

'It tops off a great season that saw him make his debut at Wycombe in the FA Cup and while he deserves the plaudits, I’d also like to make a special mention to all the academy staff who have helped him reach this point.'

Mousinho said: 'Harry impressed when he joined up with the first team last season and is a promising young player. This professional contract is thoroughly deserved and we’re excited to see how he develops with us in the coming weeks and months.'

Photo: Steve Bone

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