Lewis Billington has signed a new 12-month deal with Crewe Alexandra.

The 19-year-old defender has been rewarded for a season of progress with his second professional contract at Mornflake Stadium.

Billington, who joined Crewe aged six, impressed for the Under-21s and then spent a successful spell on loan with Leek Town last term.

He said: "I'm really pleased to have signed a new contract, and I feel ready to kick on.

"I really enjoyed my time on loan under Neil Baker, it was different from anything I'd been used to.

"He was tough on me, but it was a good experience in men's football which will stand me in good stead for the future.

"I want to earn some games in the first team this season, whether that's through playing well for the U21s or another loan. But first, I'm focused on working hard and getting fit during pre-season."

Billington, from Sandbach, operates at right-back or centre-half. 

Everybody at Crewe Alexandra would like to congratulate Lewis, and wish him all the best for the future.