TALENTED Thamesmead amateur footballer Kery Kedze is a step closer to winning a professional playing contract with League One Swindon Town or Leyton Orient.

More than 5,000 players from all over the country entered Samsung’s win a Pro contract competition and Kedze is through to the quarter-final stage for the third year running.

Left midfielder Kedze, 20, 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 November 4.

Kedze said: “I am so excited to be through to this stage in the competition again.

“Last year I got to the quarters and the year before that I got through to the final.

“Hopefully this will be third time lucky.

“To win would be such a big achievement.

“Being a professional footballer has always been my dream.”

Swindon Town manager Paolo Di Canio, who will pick one player to join his squad in January 2013, said: “Everyone has worked hard to make it this far in the competition. But there is still a long way to go.

“The players must demonstrate that they have what it takes to play professional football.

“It is a big step but I’m sure we will find a player who is capable.”

Leyton Orient boss Russell Slade will also offer a year-long contract to one player.

He said: “Competing in Samsung’s win a pro contract means a lot of pressure for these players.

“But it is a huge opportunity for them to go on and become a professional.

“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 players selected for the final in December.

To keep up to date with Kedze’s progress, visit facebook.com/samsungfootball

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