Patterson, Blanchfield, Marsden, McLoughlin, Fowler and Smith all pen professional contracts at Portman Road ahead of new 2016/17 EFL Championship season

Ipswich Town have today tied down six of their promising young players to professional contracts at Portman Road.

James Blanchfield, George Fowler, Jacob Marsden, Monty Patterson, Shane McLoughlin and Chris Smith have all penned one-year deals, with the option of a further 12 month stay.

Shane McLoughlin, who can play up front or on the wings, was named on the bench against Portsmouth in the FA Cup last season, whilst James Blanchfield also travelled as part of the first-team squad for the clash with Huddersfield in February.

Monty Patterson has been capped at senior level by New Zealand, whilst local defenders George Fowler and Chris Smith and ‘keeper Jacob Marsden are all highly rated at Playford Road. 

Shane McLoughlin

Jacob Marsden 

George Fowler 

James Blanchfield 

Monty Patterson 

Chris Smith