Academy central defender Tommy Smith has been named on the shortlist for the Wickes Young Apprentice Trophy, which recognises the best youth player in the Coca-Cola Championship.

Also nominated are Anthony Acheampong (Cardiff City), Mark Beevers (Sheffield Wednesday), Mark Devonshire (Barnsley), Lee Hills (Crystal Palace) and Joe Mattock (Leicester City).

The winner will receive £5,000 for his club's academy and holiday vouchers for himself. The second-placed player's club will get £3,000 and the third £2,000.

Wickes sports sponsorship manager Matt Holmes said: "Wickes are very proud to support this award and its recognition of the best Coca-Cola Championship apprentices - both on and off the pitch.

“Last year's winner Chris Gunter [who left Cardiff for Spurs earlier in the month] and his recent achievements are a shining example to other players at this stage of their career in terms of what can be achieved.

“The shortlist this year is extremely strong and we wish all of the players involved successful careers in the future."

The judges will include Republic of Ireland footballer Andy Townsend as well as representatives from The Football League, Wickes, the PFA and FourFourTwo magazine.

They will look at various aspects of the players' careers to date, including discipline, education, attitude and performance on the field.

Central defender Smith, 17, who played with England at the U17 World Cup in the summer, said earlier in the week that he is keen to make a move on loan to gain first team experience.

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