Padraig Amond’s sensational goals for Newport County in their run to the fifth round of the FA Cup have helped to earn him a call-up to the Republic of Ireland squad.

The 30-year-old League Two striker from Carlow has been included in the 22-man provisional squad by Mick McCarthy for the European Qualifying matches against Gibraltar and Georgia.

Enjoying one of his best seasons with 21 goals in all competitions, Amond won four caps at Under 21 level in 2008. Since then he has gone on to score more than 100 league goals in Ireland, Portugal and the Football League.

“This is the proudest moment of my career so far. There is no bigger honour than getting the chance to represent your country, so I am delighted,” said Amond, who scored in every round of the FA Cup, including a goal in the 4-1 defeat to Manchester City.

Exiles manager Michael Flynn reckons Amond is playing “the best football of his career” and has praised him for not giving up on his dream of playing international football.

“It’s excellent news about Padraig and it will be great experience for him to go away with Ireland. The honour of being called up to the Provisional squad will be one of the proudest moments of his and his family’s lives,” said Flynn.