Leicester's Jon Ashton has repaid the club's loyalty by signing a new three-year contract.

Defender Ashton, 19, has agreed a deal to take him through until 2005 and the he follows fellow youngster Matt Piper who signed a similar deal last week.

"I've been with the club since the age of nine and it means an awful lot that they've shown so much faith in me," said Ashton.

"I've really enjoyed being involved this season and I'm looking forward to what the next three years will hold.

"This club have been very good to me and I'm delighted to stay with them."