NEWPORT County AFC trio Evan Ovendale, Harrison Bright and Jack Karadogan have signed their first professional contracts.

The Exiles youngsters have earned deals after impressing in the academy set-up, with their exploits leading to involvement with James Rowberry’s seniors.

Right-back Bright made his League Two debut off the bench against Rochdale at Rodney Parade on final day while goalkeeper Ovendale and midfielder Karadogan were both unused substitutes at various stages in the season.

Ovendale, son of former County ‘keeper Mark, has reaped the rewards of working closely with Nick Townsend and Joe Day.

“In training they speak to me every day and along with Jim [Hollman], the goalkeeping coach, they pick up on little things I could do that would help to improve my game,” said the 17-year-old, who joined County at 14.

“They have been a big help in my development as well as the coaching with giving me feedback.”

Ovendale has warmed up with the first choice duo on matchday and was on the bench for the games against Walsall and Hartlepool.

“It has been really good, the best experiences that I have had so far,” he said. “Men's changing rooms are completely different to the academy environment and it felt more real. I really enjoyed it.”

Karadogan also got a taste of the action when he was in the matchday 18 for the win at Carlisle.

The Wales Under-17s and 18s midfielder from Cardiff is aiming to push on this summer and by working with the likes of Robbie Willmott and Scot Bennett in the first half of the season, before potentially making a loan move.

“It's been amazing getting a taste of men's football,” he said. “I am learning every day, training has been good and hopefully next season I can get more and more experience to hopefully make a debut.”

Bright was an unused sub against Bristol Rovers, Stevenage and Bradford before finally making his League Two bow against Rochdale.

Academy manager Damien Broad said: "Harrison is a dynamic, attacking full-back who has already been involved in the First Team this season, last featuring on the final day at Rodney Parade as a second half substitute.

"Joining the club in 2020 Harrison has gone from strength to strength since being in the academy, spending regular time training the first team squad in the second half of the season.”