Baird receives Under 21s Call Up

Chris Baird has signed a new two and a half year deal keeping at the club until June 2004. Chris has worked his way solidly through the youth academy and deserves this new deal. In a great week for the youngster, Chris has also been called up to the Northern Ireland Under 21 squad. Chris said: "It has been a fantastic week. "I am delighted to have signed a new deal. It gives me a bit of security and enables me to concentrate on my football.

"But then to get the call-up as well was just brilliant. It came right out of the blue. I was wondering whether I was still eligible for the Under 19's when suddenly this came up.

"I am thrilled. It is a huge honour to be involved even if I don't get to play but hopefully I will get on.

"It was always an ambition but it has come a lot sooner than I ever dreamed. My family live 45 minutes away so I am sure they will all be coming up to support me.

"I am really chuffed with the way things are going but I know I still have a long way to go and a lot to learn. But this will be great experience for me."