NEWPORT County’s memorable run in this season’s FA Cup brought striker Padraig Amond to the attention of a national audience after goals in every round from the first to the fifth.

While he is best known for his poaching instinct in opposition territory, the 30-year-old also does plenty of good work off the pitch and is a firm favourite among Exiles supporters.

Fourteen strikes last term, 20 so far this campaign, an amiable personality and classic Irish charm have endeared him to the County fans who are hoping he can help inspire a late play-off push.

Amond’s achievements during his second season at Rodney Parade have seen him nominated for Professional Sports Personality of the Year in the South Wales Argus Sports Awards.

Some 14 awards, including County Player of the Year, will be handed out at a ceremony hosted by Chepstow Racecourse on May 22.

“This footballer is a true gentleman both on and off the pitch,” said Lisa Hoey, who nominated Amond for the award won last year by his manager Michael Flynn.

“He is a fantastic advocate for football and is an inspiration for the future footballing generations in Newport.

“His footballing accolades for Newport County have been immense.

“He trains future academy stars, attends Newport County Soccer Schools and takes the time out of his busy footballing schedule to spend time with the club’s younger fans.

“He spends time with younger fans like my nine-year-old daughter to thank them for their support.

“He spends time signing autographs, having photos taken and even gave my daughter his FA Cup shirt to thank her for all her support.

“He is an absolute gent and a great role model for the modern-day pro.

“He is the true ethos of what a County player looks like, on and off the field – Padraig Amond is a perfect example of this."

Speaking last month after Amond had extended his stay in South Wales until at least the end of next season, Flynn said: “He’s a very good professional and I’m really surprised that he hasn’t played at a higher level in his career.

“He's very fit for his age and he’s always available, and he's not fazed by the big occasion.”

Strike partner Jamille Matt added: “Podge is, first and foremost, a lovely guy and a great player.

“We’ve got a decent partnership going over the last couple of months so I’m happy to see that he’ll be staying for another year and hopefully he’ll score a lot more goals for the club.”

Defender David Pipe said: “Podge is one of the best professionals you’ll meet in the game."

In scoring against Met Police, Wrexham, Leicester City, Middlesbrough and Manchester City, Amond became the first player since Bradford City's Jon Stead in 2014/15 to net in rounds one to five of the FA Cup in the same season.

* Nominations for the South Wales Argus Sports Awards can be made by visiting www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sportsawards – the closing date is Monday, March 18.