Three players reaching the end of their two-year scholarships have accepted the offer of a third year and signed one year contracts with CRC.

Craig Bussens was the only second year to be offered a professional contract with Cambridge United, but Head of Youth Jez George feels that Rory McAuley, Lewis Carr and Sam Beagle all have the potential to play at a higher level and will benefit from another twelve months within our scheme.

They will form the backbone of the CRC team and continue training full-time with United's scholars.

"Their professionalism and work ethic should benefit the group as a whole, which will in turn give the first and second year scholars a greater chance of success," Jez told cambridgeunited.com.

"In addition, they will have time to develop their individual games, focus on areas they need to improve and gain leadership skills that will also help their performances."

Blackpool-born Rory McAuley (pictured, top) joined Cambridge City aged 14, having been released by Norwich City. He joined Cambridge United as a scholar in 2006 with the transfer of the Youth Development Scheme and has performed consistently well over his two years.

Rory played in all the FA Youth Cup ties during our memorable run in Season 2006/07 and when available has been an automatic pick in the Ridgeons League, with 33 appearances this season. Equally effective at right back or central midfield, Rory has the desire, physical qualities and ability to push ahead in the coming 12 months.

Lewis Carr has captained our FA Youth Cup and CRC teams this season, making 40 appearances in the Ridgeons League. Over the last twelve months, Lewis has been the lynchpin of our defence and now just needs time to add strength to his athleticism, positional play and vastly improved heading ability.

Born in Leicester and previously with Rushden & Diamonds, Lewis has a tremendous attitude on and off the pitch, is mature beyond his years and will really help the two younger centre backs in the group of scholars. The Youth Development staff have high hopes for his continued development.

Goalkeeper Sam Beagle has been arguably the most improved scholar this season and has been a virtual ever-present in our Ridgeons League matches since claiming the No.1 shirt just before Christmas.

Sam is a fantastic shot stopper and has grown in confidence throughout the campaign, and with another twelve months to add bulk to his frame and develop his physical strength, the coaching staff feel that Sam's progress will be further accelerated.

In addition, he will work with our two scholar goalkeepers, Richard Mace and Ross Chapman, who will both be determined to take his place in the CRC team. Sam will also continue to coach our Centre of Excellence goalkeepers.

Make Your Click Count For The U's - talk about it on the Message Board!

You are respectfully reminded that any article, as with all content on this website, unless otherwise stated, is subject to copyright © and the Official Cambridge United Website must be acknowledged as the original source including all quotes.

AT080523