A young Chigwell footballer is in the running to win a professional contract with a Football League club.

Conor Mitchell, 20, of Lyndhurst Rise, is through to the first round of trials for the Win a Pro Contract competition.

More than 5,000 amateur players from across the country applied for the chance to play for Leyton Orient or Swimdon Town.

Conor, who is currently studying at Loughborough University, said he was knocked out early in the competition when he applied last year.

He added: “I’m always looking to better myself as a player. I’ve improved physically and technically for the competition.

“I want to get further this time around. Winning a professional contract would mean the world to me.”

Orient manager Russell Slade said: “Becoming a professional footballer is a demanding process. This competition will be very tough in terms of fitness, as well as skill.

“The players who have made it through to the first-round trials will need to give it their all if they want to go on live the dream.”

Conor will go through a series of trials and matches watched by club scouts and the two managers before two winners are chosen in January.

To follow his progress in the competition, visit www.facebook.com/samsungfootball.