TEENAGER Aaron Collins hopes he’s done enough to force his way into the Newport County AFC first team after concluding an impressive pre-season in style.

The 18-year-old, who was working in McDonalds this time last year, opened the scoring with a 25-yard rocket at Weston-super-Mare on Tuesday before creating a second goal for teammate Dafydd Jones.

Collins has also netted against Undy and Eastleigh this month and his positive impact will have given manager Terry Butcher food for thought ahead of the League Two opener at Cambridge United on August 8.

In his first media interview, the youngster told the Argus that he is determined to play an important role for the new-look Exiles this season.

“It’s always good to get your shots off early to test the keeper and I got a shot off and it went into the top of the net,” he said of his goal at Weston.

“And for the second goal I saw Dafydd screaming for the ball so I passed it across and it was a nice finish from him.

“I’ve come on as a sub a lot and I feel like I’ve made an impact with a couple of goals so hopefully I can play more through the season,” he added.

“We’ve got a small squad and we’re going to get injuries so I’m hoping I can play my part.

“I want to get more minutes and score some more goals for the squad.”

One man convinced that Collins is good enough to make an impact at Rodney Parade is former youth team coach Mike Flynn, who handed Collins his first pro contract last season.

“He’s a great talent and he can go as far as he wants,” said Flynn, who left County this summer.

“He’s got all the ability, he’s exciting to watch and he’s getting stronger and tougher as well.

“He came to St Joseph’s boxing gym with me and Junior Borg in the summer to toughen up and it shows.

“Last summer he was working at McDonalds to pay his petrol money because he wasn’t offered a scholarship,” he added.

“But as soon as I saw him I knew he was a good player and he’s a great kid.

“He should have been playing for the first team at the end of last season – he’s better than what we had up front.”

Collins was one of nine teenagers to start in the 2-2 draw at Weston on Tuesday and Flynn says it was a night of mixed emotions for him.

“It’s a bit gutting that I’m no longer involved but I still keep in touch with the boys and I was incredibly proud to see them all playing.

“And I’m sure if Terry thinks they are good enough they will get their chance to prove it.”