BOURNE End midfielder Ryan Upward is a step closer to The Football League after reaching the semi-finals of a nationwide competition to win a professional contract with Wycombe Wanderers, Swindon Town or Leyton Orient.

The 21-year-old midfielder is one of 88 players to reach the semi-finals of trials.

He said: “I feel very happy but I cannot allow the experience to overwhelm me.

“I'm two matches away from a life-change in terms of my football. But two games is a big ask and the players competing now will be stronger, more athletic and better footballers.”

Upward will play at Adams Park on Sunday in the next 11-a-side trial.