PROLIFIC Newport County AFC striker Padraig Amond has spoken of his frustration at not having had the chance to see what he can do higher up the football ladder.

The 30-year-old Irishman is one of the top scorers in League Two this season, netting 20 times in all competitions for the Exiles to go with 14 goals last term.

Amond’s career in the English game has been at League Two level or lower, with spells at Accrington Stanley, Morecambe, Grimsby Town and Hartlepool United before joining County.

“I believe I can play at a higher level,” he said. “For one reason or another I just haven’t had that opportunity yet, but I fully believe I can.

“The gaffer and other managers have gone on record before saying they don’t know how I’ve not got a chance.

“It really annoys me that I haven’t had that opportunity, but I still believe I will score goals at a higher level.

“If I play at that higher level and don’t score goals, I still fully believe I will.

“Whatever level that is, I don’t know, but I think I can step up a level or two.”

While with the Exiles, Amond has found the net against the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Leicester City, Middlesbrough and, most recently, Manchester City, all in the FA Cup.

“The goals I’ve scored against the bigger sides are not one-offs,” he added.

“I’m a striker who gets into good positions in the box and if a team creates chances then I’ll score more than I miss.

“I suppose I want to keep proving people wrong and keep scoring goals to get myself into that position.”

Amond is going to be looking to add to his impressive tally this Saturday when County host Carlisle United at Rodney Parade.

The same goes for strike partner Jamille Matt, who is just behind Amond on 17 goals for the season.

“Jamille has been brilliant,” said Carlow-born Amond. “Me and him have built up a good relationship on the pitch. He’s helped me get better and I think I’ve helped him get better as well. Sometimes you just kind of click on the pitch and things go well.

“You just have to keep working as hard as you can, and the harder you work, the luckier you get.”