TALENTED amateur footballer Bradley Ausden has been shortlisted in a nationwide competition to win a professional playing contract with a Football League club.

Striker Bradley, who plays for Okehampton Argyle, will now take part in the first-round trials of Samsung's Win A Pro Contract that could see him sign up for either Swindon Town or Leyton Orient.

More than 5,000 players from all over the country entered Win A Pro Contract - and Bradley is already through to skills testing sessions.

Bradley said: 'I played for the youth academies of Exeter City and Plymouth Argyle when I was younger.

'At the moment I work part-time so to win this competition and become a professional footballer would mean the world to me. I hope I've got what it takes to impress the coaches. It's going to be tough but I'm going to give it everything.'

Last year's winner, Chris Smith, was a student before he signed for League One Swindon Town in February. Chris made his first team debut against Bradford City in May.

He said: 'When I entered Win A Pro Contract I was just one of the thousands of players in the competition who dreamed of playing pro football. My dream came true.

'This year, for the first time, there are two clubs involved. So there are two pro contracts to be won. I wish every player the best of luck.'

Swindon manager and Premier League legend Paolo Di Canio said: 'The Samsung Win a Pro Contract competition offers an amazing prize. But it will not be an easy journey for the players who have entered. They will have to work very hard to earn a chance here.'

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.'

Win A Pro Contract hopefuls take part in a series of trials and full matches watched by club scouts and the two managers. The two winners will be chosen in January 2013.

To follow Bradley's progress in the competition visit http://www.facebook.com/samsungfootball">www.facebook.com/samsungfootball