Derby County are proud to announce that Academy graduates Owen Eames and Charles Agbawodikeizu have both committed their long-term futures to the club by signing new contracts, reinforcing the Rams’ focus on nurturing homegrown talent and creating a clear pathway from Academy to First Team football.
Derby County Academy midfielder Owen Eames has committed his long-term future to the club after penning a new three-and-a-half-year contract.
The homegrown 19-year-old has agreed a deal that will keep him at Pride Park Stadium until the summer of 2029.
Eames first joined the Rams at the age of seven and has progressed through the Academy ranks, making his First Team debut against Leeds United in the Emirates FA Cup earlier this month.
The Swadlincote-born prospect has been a regular presence around the First Team over the past 12 months, training regularly with John Eustace’s side and appearing on the substitutes’ bench on six occasions prior to his senior bow.
Such recognition followed an outstanding 2024/25 season for the Under-18s, with Eames registering 10 goals and eight assists from 17 starts in the U18 Premier League.
The attacking midfielder was rewarded with his maiden professional contract in July 2025 and has since transitioned to Under-21 level, featuring in all but one fixture for Danny Maye’s side so far this season.
Earlier this month, Eames was presented with a personalised plaque by the manager in recognition of his First Team debut. The award marks the first in a new club tradition, celebrating all Derby County Academy graduates who go on to make a senior appearance for the Rams.
Discussing his new deal with RamsTV, Eames said:
“It feels amazing. I’ve been at the club for over 10 years and I’ve worked so hard, so it’s a proud day for me and my family.”
“I was absolutely buzzing to make my debut. I thought I did well, putting myself about and bringing lots of energy, but there’s still more to come.”
“The step up from Under-21 level to the First Team has been a lot harder than I thought.”
“The first few weeks were tough on the body, but now I’m used to it, it’s great to be around top players and learn so much each and every day.”
“I just want to play as many games as possible, perform to the best of my ability at every opportunity, and kick on in the seasons ahead.”
Interim Academy Manager Jamie Smith said:
“We are delighted to secure the long-term future of Owen at the Football Club.
This contract provides Owen with the stability to fully focus on his development, which is supported by the ongoing collaboration between Academy and First Team staff at Moor Farm.
“It is vitally important to recognise the large amount of time, effort, and support from staff across the club in ensuring Owen has always had the environment and expertise to guide him on his Academy journey. As a club, we take huge satisfaction when players progress through every stage and achieve their dream of playing First Team football.
“Our focus is now fully placed on nurturing Owen’s potential through his training programme, making sure he is ready to gain more minutes and experience within the senior game.”
Derby County Academy striker Charles Agbawodikeizu has signed his first professional contract with the club, committing his long-term future to the Rams.
The highly rated 18-year-old joined Derby’s Academy ahead of the 2024/25 season, following a stint with West Ham United, and made an immediate impact in his debut campaign.
Agbawodikeizu scored 15 goals in 14 games Under-18 Premier League North, finding the back of the net in each of his first four matches and recording hat-tricks against Stoke City, Leeds United and Middlesbrough to help the Under-18s finish fourth in the North table.
Such form earned him opportunities at Under-21 level, while he was also named on the First Team substitutes’ bench for four of Derby’s Sky Bet Championship fixtures in March 2025.
Continuing his development, the striker scored twice for John Eustace’s side during pre-season, finding the net in wins against Solihull Moors and Walsall.
His progress in the 2025/26 campaign has been halted following hamstring surgery, but after a successful rehabilitation period, the teenager is now nearing a return to competitive action.
Upon signing his first professional contract, Agbawodikeizu told RamsTV:
“Signing my first professional contract is a great feeling for me and my family.
“My first season with the Academy gave me a lot of belief and helped me progress my game.
“Being with the First Team and getting those opportunities in pre-season was great. I enjoyed every moment and it gave me a lot of confidence. I can’t wait for the seasons ahead.”
Jamie Smith added:
“We are delighted to secure the long-term future of Charles at the club. This signifies the club’s ambition to retain our Academy talent, and we are extremely pleased that Charles, his family and his representatives see Derby County as the best place to support him in reaching his potential.
“Charles is a powerful, hardworking striker with a high ceiling. This is a significant milestone for him, and we look forward to helping maximise his development.”
These new contracts highlight Derby County’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and providing a clear pathway from the Academy to the First Team.
By investing in players like Owen Eames and Charles Agbawodikeizu, the club is not only securing its future on the pitch but also reinforcing the importance of the Academy as a cornerstone of Derby County’s identity, ensuring young prospects have the environment, guidance, and opportunities to fulfil their potential with the Rams.
