The right-back – a regular for the Under-23s this season – has penned a two-year deal after reaching the end of his scholarship in the Clarets’ Academy.

Long-throw specialist Cropper, 18, joined Burnley from Ilkeston Town in February, 2017 and helped Steve Stone’s side finish fourth in the U23 Professional Development League northern group this season.

“I’ve had a lot of hope off Stoney and Faz (Andy Farrell). They have helped me and believed in me all season and given me a great opportunity to push on,” said Cropper.

“I have had a lot of support from my family and my mates back home, as well, and to come from non-league to a big club like Burnley just shows that if you keep playing and working hard you can get your chance.

“I want to come back and make a quick start in pre-season and push on from here and show what I can do.”

The Nottingham-born defender joins the professional ranks along with central defender Bobby Thomas (above), who signed his contract last month, while there are still offers on the table for Under-23 squad men Dan Agyei, Christian N’Guessan and Tunde Bayode.

And Ali Koiki will also be staying with the Clarets after an option in his contract was activated to reward the left-back, 19, who is currently on loan at Swindon Town.

POS	Team	PL	PTS
16	LEE	10	11
17	BUR	10	10
18	WH	10	7

POS	Team	PL	PTS
16	LEE	10	11
17	BUR	10	10
18	WH	10	7

Cropper Signs Pro Deal

Premier League table

Related news

Related news

DÚBRAVKA REFLECTS ON 'CRAZY' VICTORY AT WOLVES

'WE LACKED NOUS AT KEY MOMENTS' ADMITS PARKER

FAN BANNED FOR LIFE

Premier League table