James Bree has been nominated as one of League One's 'Apprentices Of The Year'.

The 18-year-old, who is currently out through injury, has made 22 appearances this campaign and has proven a consistent performer at right-back. Bree is up against Blackpool midfielder Bright Osayi-Samuel and Swindon midfielder Tom Smith for the award.

Reds caretaker Paul Heckingbottom said: "They are looking at players who are performing for the first team but also they are looking at their education and their character. It's a credit to James that he has been nominated."

Bree has made 37 appearances for the Reds, 22 of which have come this season. He was the first choice right-back after the departure of Reece Wabara in January but limped off in the win over Coventry on March 1. He has a tear in his hamstring and is trying to be back fit for the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final at Wembley on April 3.

Heckingbottom said: "James Bree was back running again this week and we're really pleased with his progression.  But it's a hamstring injury so we have to be very cautious and go through the full programme before he comes back to full training. We won't know how long he will be out until he's training properly."

Past winners of the award include Lewin Nyatanga, Dale Jennings, Scott Golbourne and Mark Beevers.