Talented local footballer Danny Bate is a step closer to winning a dream professional contract with Leyton Orient, Swindon Town or Wycombe Wanderers.

Right-back Danny, 20 from Sutton manor, is one of 22 players who have progressed to the Final of Samsung’s nationwide Win A Pro Contract competition, which this year attracted a record number 5,700 entrants.

Bates impressed the club representatives and scouts at his Semi-Final at Wycombe Wanderers on December 8.

He said: “I’m over the moon about getting through to the final, i’m determined to get one of the contracts.

“I’m going to remain focussed during Christmas, staying fit and keeping sharp so that I’m ready for the final.”

Danny will now compete in an 11-a-side match against fellow amateur hopefuls at Swindon Town’s County Ground [scheduled for Sunday January 12, 2014 at 3pm].

Orient Manager Russell Slade said: “Talent is important, but what we’re after is someone with the right attitude who is willing to give everything and also take things on board and learn.”

Wycombe Wanderer’s boss Gareth Ainsworth said: “Some of these players will have dropped out of the league system and had experience before - this is a second chance for them.”

Swindon Town manager Mark Cooper added: “As well as their natural talent, I’ll be looking out for players that are not afraid of rolling their sleeves up, doing a bit of hard work and committing to the cause.”