Preston North End

Goalkeeper Hudson, who made his first team debut at Leeds United in December, and right back Smith, who has twice made the bench in the Championship and League Cup this season, since 18 month pro deals, with an option for another year.

Ben Davies, currently on loan at Newport County, has also had a clause in his contract activated, meaning the Academy graduate has had a further year added to his stay at Deepdale, now ending in June 2017.

Southport-born Hudson was recently called in an England training camp for goalkeepers and has been on the bench a number of times in the last two years, most recently in Saturday’s third round FA Cup tie at Peterborough United.

Meanwhile, Smith – at Welsh U19 international who was born in Altrincham – has trained with the first team since pre-season and has impressed the first team coaching staff with his development.

Speaking about the deals manager Simon Grayson said: “Clive has been with us since the summer and was around the pre-season games. He has been on the bench a few times and he has got a future. He is a good kid; willing to learn, has good energy and we are delighted to give him his first contract.

“Matt is another who had deserved a contract. He has also been on the bench, came on for his debut against Leeds and performed admirably. He has a bright future in the game.

“We are delighted they have committed their futures to the Club and it shows there is a pathway available for the younger players.”

Matt Hudson added: “"I'm delighted to get the deal done, a lot of things have happened over the last few years that have helped me get to this point, and I'm really happy to get my first professional contract.”

Whilst Clive Smith said: “I'm over the moon, I'm really thankful for the opportunity and I've just got to kick on now and try and get myself into the squad. I'm really grateful to the gaffer and the Club for giving me this opportunity, I'm just hoping I can grasp it with both hands now and kick on."