Billy Clarke is targeting a place in the first-team squad by the end of the season after signing his first professional contract.

The striker, who turned 17 last week, put pen to paper on the deal today that will keep him at the Club until the summer of 2007.

"It's fantastic, signing a professional contract is something I have dreamed about since I was a toddler.

"I came over to Ipswich a couple of years ago from Ireland and have really enjoyed my time here.

"I had a chance to go to Aston Villa, Leicester, Everton and a few other clubs but really got on well with the staff here and was made to feel welcome and that's what persuaded me that Ipswich was the right club for me and it's proved the right decision.

"I've played for the reserves this season and scored a few goals and now my next target is to try and force my way into the first-team squad by the end of the season.

"I've seen Owen Garvan and Darryl Knights do it and that drives you on."