Republic of Ireland under-21 international Jason Knight has committed his future to Derby County by signing a new three-year contract at the Rams.
The former Cabinteely player has made 18 appearances for Phillip Cocu's side this term and has started their last eight games in the Championship.
Knight also scored his first goal for the club when he found the net in their 2-1 victory over Charlton at Pride Park last month.
“The club has a lot of faith in the youngsters coming through and that’s exciting," the midfielder told Derby's official website.
“The manager has trusted a number of the younger players in some important games and when you step out on the pitch you just want to repay the faith that he has shown in you.
"The last year or so has been amazing for myself personally and to top it off with a new contract is amazing."
Morgan Whittaker has also agreed a new long-term deal with Derby and Cocu is "delighted" that the futures of both players have been secured:
“Both players have been with the first-team since the start of pre-season and have shown real progression during that time.
“These new contracts are a reward for the hard work they’ve put in and the progress and development that we have seen from them, but they are also well aware that they must stay on the right path and continue to work hard and be dedicated to what they want to achieve.”
“The philosophy we have at the football club places a great deal of emphasis on the first-team and Academy having a strong relationship and aligned approach to give young players coming through the best possible opportunity in their development."
