Last updated on .From the section Football

Keown has signed a deal to keep him at the Madejski Stadium until 2018

Reading defender Niall Keown is confident youth will continue to get its chance in the season ahead.

Keown, 20, was among 11 academy graduates to make their first-team debut for the club last season.

The son of former Arsenal and England defender Martin signed a new three-year contract with the Royals on Tuesday.

"I'm thrilled to be here at a club which is starting to feel like home after four years here already," he told the club's official website. external-link

Keown made his full debut against Brighton in the Championship in March and featured in the starting line-up alongside Anton Ferdinand in the Royals' pre-season friendly in Thailand last week.

"Towards the end of last season, I was lucky enough to get my chance under Steve Clarke," he added.

"I've very much enjoyed working under him. Since he's been here, there's been a clear message to the way he wants to play and I think all the young players are really excited to try to get that opportunity."