FORMER York Acorn ARLC full-back Matt Chilton's rise into the pro ranks is to continue into the Betfred Championship after he agreed a new two-year deal at York City Knights.

The 21-year-old initially impressed on trial with the pro club last winter, scoring three tries in as many pre-season appearances, before going back to National Conference League outfit Acorn.

He then returned to the Knights on transfer deadline day in July on a short-term deal taking him to the end of the 2018 season, and he went on to score five tries in five outings - including a memorable double against Whitehaven on the final day to help seal the Betfred League One title.

Head coach James Ford has seemingly seen enough to believe the youngster can now make the step up to the second tier in the pro arena, with his new contract taking him to the end of 2020.

Ford said: "Matty has lots of potential as a winger or full-back. More importantly he’s shown lots a drive and maturity around learning and hard work.

"I’m confident Matty’s commitment and professional attitude will see him continue to develop and challenge for a place within our 17.

"Matty is a very popular individual at the club and I’m delighted he’s embracing this challenge."

Chilton said: "I’m very pleased to have signed for the next two years at York.

"It is a great place to be, and I am very fortunate as not every club will have facilities as good as ours. How well we get looked after is brilliant - credit to Jon (Flatman, chairman), Fordy and all the backroom staff for making it such an enjoyable place to play.

"I’ve still got lots to learn, but in this environment with the coaches and senior players at the club I’m sure they will help me keep on improving my game.

"Finally the fans have been first class. The atmosphere at the big games has been amazing. I can’t wait to get out and play in front of them next season alongside a great set of lads."