CHARLTON defender Nathan Ashton has become the fourth youngster to sign professional forms with the club in the last four months.

The 18-year-old left-back has put pen-to-paper on a deal that will tie him to the club until the summer of 2006.

Ashton follows in the footsteps of striker James Walker, who signed a pro contract in November, and goalkeepers Darren Randolph and Robert Elliot, who committed themselves to the club in December - with Charlton continuing their focus on producing homegrown talent.

"I'm very pleased to sign my first contract," said Nathan, who has been regularly involved with the club's table-topping reserve squad this season.