Daniel Jones from Buckhurst Hill

Buckhurst Hill footballer Daniel Jones is down to last 88 in hunt to earn a professional deal at either Leyton Orient and Swindon Town.

Buckhurst Hill footballer Daniel Jones is a step closer to winning a professional playing contract with League One clubs Swindon Town or Leyton Orient.

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

The 19-year-old from Buckhurst Hill, is one of 88 players remaining after impressing scouts at Regional Trials.

He will now play in an 11-a-side match at Staines Town FC on Sunday, November 4.

Jones said: “My aim was to get through the skill trial and I am hopeful that I can go further.

“I was pleased with my performance in the trials. I was quite clinical and managed to put my chances away, which is always good for a striker.

“Since I was 12, this is all I’ve wanted. I’ve had chances before, but was released. This competition is my second chance. It’s everything to me.”

Orient boss Russell Slade will also offer a year-long contract to one player, and said: “I’m looking for someone with the right attitude, intelligence on the pitch, and a special quality that makes them stand out – like electric pace, a passing ability, or a real physical presence.”

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