A HOST of talented amateur footballers from Gwent have been shortlisted in a nationwide competition to win a professional playing contract with a Football League club.

Striker Muneer Radman, aged 21, from Charlotte Walk, Newport, is among those who will now take part in first round of trials for Samsung's Win A Pro Contract that could see him sign up for Swindon Town, Wycombe Wanderers or Leyton Orient.

More than 5,700 players from all over the country entered the competition – and Radman is one of 360 through to a skills testing session.

His trial is at the Goals Soccer Centre in Bristol on Sunday.

Radman said: "This is a massive opportunity, I've never had an opportunity like this before and I'm very grateful.

"I'm never going to stop trying. It's always been a childhood dream of mine to become a professional footballer."

Also progressing from Newport is midfielder Charlie Head, aged 17, from Brookfield Close, defender Lewis Coldrick, aged 20, from Scott Close and goalkeeper George Tapsell, aged 16, from Fields Park Avenue.

Central midfielder Louis Cochrane, aged 16, from Thornhill, Cwmbran, also takes part on Sunday.

Cochrane said: "I'm very excited, opportunities like this do not come around too often and I expect I'll be on the youngest there so I just hope I can compete!

"Considering there were over 5,000 entrants, I'm happy to have been selected and I just hope I can perform on the day and make the most of this massive opportunity.

"I can't think of anything in the world I'd rather do than play football as a job, it would be a dream come true!"

Also competing will be winger Amond Tumbapo, aged 18, from Croesyceiliog, midfielder Lloyd Kinsella, aged 18, from Hollybush, and midfielder Jacob Farthing, aged 18, from Llanfrechfa.

For the first time since Win A Pro Contract was launched in 2010, there are now three professional contracts on offer as Wycombe Wanderers join Samsung's existing partnerships with Swindon Town and Leyton Orient.

Hopefuls will be tested at regional skills trials and 11-a-side matches as they bid to kick-start their dreams of becoming a professional footballer.

Last year's winners, Jack Sherratt and Kayden Jackson, signed for Leyton Orient and Swindon Town respectively.

To follow the competition, please go to www.facebook.com/samsungfootball