Motherwell-born Bloemfontein Celtic star Bongani Sam was on Monday named as one of the nominees for the Younger Player of the Season in the 2019 Absa Premiership awards.The 21-year-old will be up against Cape Town City’s Gift Links and Teboho Mokoena of SuperSport United.The left back was excited when contacted by The Herald on Monday. “I am very happy with the nomination – this had come as a surprise to me,” Sam said.“It shows that people have noticed the hard work I have put in during the season.“We have been through many challenges this season and finishing in the top eight is a huge achievement for us.“Winning the award would be a huge boost for other aspiring soccer players in PE.“It would make them believe anything is possible.“Last season I was just like them – here I am today.”Sam did not want to comment on whether other clubs had shown interest in him.The former Lion City player spent a season in the National First Division playing for Highlands Park.