Reading FC Academy player Josh Shama has been nominated for the prestigious British Junior Asian Sports Personality Of The Year award.

Voting is underway now, and Josh, 14, is one of three remaining contenders, the winner to be announced at a lavish Grosvenor Hotel ceremony on 21st February.

Josh is a striker who plays for our under 14s team, and has been with the club since the age of 11.

Assistant Academy Director Geoff Warner explained, "Josh plays up front, he's got a good goalscoring record and did particularly well on tours of Norway & Nantes last year.

"He's got good pace, he has quick feet and importantly he has got a good attitude as well."

Josh's name was put forward for this award by a coach from another club, having seen him in action and then recommending him to the British Asian Sports Award committee.

The event is now in its eighth year and will be shown on Sony TV Asia, which is available on Sky.

Royals supporters can vote for Josh by telephoning 0901 159 7814 or, texting BASA JOSHUA to 83222.

Calls are charged at 50p from UK landlines and more from mobile phones. SMS votes charged at 50p per vote.

Voting lines close at 23:59 on Friday 20th February 2009. Any votes cast after that time will not be counted but may stll be charged. Please ask the bill payers permission before voting. Terms and conditions apply - more details at the awards' website http://basauk.tv