Conor Mitchell is through to the last 88 in hope of earning professional deal with Leyton Orient or Swindon Town.

Chigwell footballer Conor Mitchell gets chance to impress Leyton Orient and Swindon Town in bid to secure a pro deal at either club.

Talented Chigwell footballer Conor Mitchell is a step closer to winning a professional playing contract with League One Swindon Town or Leyton Orient and will be looking to impress on Sunday.

More than 5,000 players from all over the country entered Samsung’s Win A Pro Contract competition – and Mitchell has progressed through to the quarter-final stage.

The 20-year-old left-back of Lyndhurst Rise, Chigwell is one of 88 players remaining after impressing scouts at regional trials.

Mitchell will now play in an 11-a-side match at Hyde FC on Sunday.

The Loughborough University student is obviously delighted to reach this stage and he hopes he is fully prepared for Sunday’s challenge.

“It’s a huge relief to know I’ve got through to the next stage. I’m glad that the coaches felt I was good enough,” he said

“I’ve been keeping up with my training and playing regularly with my university team to make sure I’m prepared.

“I’m in my last year of university and need to make a decision on my future career. To win a professional football contract would be life-changing.”

Leyton Orient boss Russell Slade will offer a year-long contract to one player alongside Swindon Town boss Paolo Di Canio.

“Competing in Samsung’s Win A Pro Contract means a lot of pressure for the players,” said Slade.

“But it is a huge opportunity for them to go on and become a professional.

“I’m looking for a player with the right attitude, intelligence on the pitch, and a special quality that makes them stand out – electric pace, a great range or passing ability, or a real physical presence.”

The 88 players are battling it out to be among the 11 players selected for the final that takes place in December.