Barnsley-born defender is rewarded for an impressive season with a professional deal!
18-year-old Louis Wardle has today signed his first professional contract with Barnsley Football Club. Predominantly a right-sided defender, Wardle can also operate comfortably down the wings or in central midfield and has been deployed in multiple positions throughout his time in the academy set-up, excelling himself in each role.
An attacking full-back with a keen eye for goal, Wardle has rivalled his teammates for the top scorer accolade throughout the campaign and his tricky runs down the wings have often resulted in penalties or free-kick’s being awarded his way.
Promoted to the U23s at the age of just 17, Wardle is another member of the Reds academy who has seen first team involvement with a place on the bench against Wolves at Oakwell.
We are pleased that Louis has committed his immediate future to the Reds and we look forward to seeing his development continue with the Club.
Upon signings his deal, Louis said, “It’s an honour to sign a professional deal with my local Club. I can’t wait to get back into training and I hope I can progress further. I know I need to keep working hard and impress the coaches to increase my chances of a first team spot. I want to thank everyone who has worked with me so far and made me get to this stage.”
Academy Manager Bobby Hassell commented, “Louis has done exceptionally well throughout his entire time at Oakwell, which has been a number of years now. He’s progressed with flying colours at every level and has even had first team involvement this season and last, which he has earnt. He needs to make sure now that after signing this deal, he keeps on progressing and can improve himself as a player.
“He’s from Barnsley which is great for us, as we want talented local lads to progress through our system. I'm sure the fans will be just as happy as we are about this, it’s what they want to see as well.”
