By Shane Ireland

Birmingham City youth star Ronan Hale has today put pen-to-paper on a professional contract with the club.

The 17-year-old has agreed a three-year deal after enjoying terrific goalscoring form for Blues under-18 side.

Hale, who joined Blues last summer, has scored 22 goals in just 17 appearances this season.

The Northern Irish youngster bagged five goals in one game as the U18s beat Leeds United 6-2 earlier this campaign.

Academy coach Steve Spooner, speaking to bcfc.com,  said: Ronan came to us from Northern Ireland in the summer and he’s made significant strides forwards.”

“We knew he was a goal scorer but he’s actually surprised all of us with how much of a goal scorer and natural finisher he is.

“We’ve been absolutely delighted to be able to sign him up.

“He’s done enough to suggest that we should give him a pro contract despite still being in his first year of his scholarship and we’re very pleased for him.

“He’s quick, aggressive and has the natural instinct for runs and finishing, although as he knows himself there are still areas of his game that he’s got to work on.”

Hale is the latest prospect off the Wast Hills production line to secure a professional contract, after 16-year-old forward Odin Bailey agreed a deal yesterday.