NEWPORT County AFC new boy Lamar Reynolds is counting the days until he’s finally unleashed on the Football League.

The lightning quick forward is only 21 but after years of struggling to make an impact in non-league football at Heybridge Swifts, Thurrock, Grays Athletic and Aveley & Barking he’s desperate to make up for lost time.

Reynolds’ big break came after he hit 28 goals in 36 appearances for the Essex side Brentwood Town in the Isthmian League Division One North last season.

That earned him a coveted place at Jamie Vardy’s V9 Academy, which was set up by the England striker in an attempt to get more non-league talent into the English Football League.

Reynolds was the standout player among the 42 non-league stars who attended the five-day V9 showcase at Manchester City’s state-of-the-art training complex in June.

And, after being handed a two-year deal by County boss Michael Flynn last month, he’s determined to take League Two by storm and repay the faith shown in him.

“I had no doubts about signing,” he said. “There were a few others [interested in me] but I saw that I could relate to a few things here and I thought this would be the best place for me to go.

“And they showed faith in me [with a two-year contract] so I’m not going to turn that down. It was a no-brainer.

“Every second I’m on the pitch I’ll try to work hard for the team and hopefully it pays off.

“This is a big jump from where I was playing before so I just want to quickly make an impact and show that there is obviously talent in non-league.”

South Wales Argus:

Asked about his potential Football League debut at Stevenage on August 5, Reynolds said: “I literally cannot wait. I just want it to come as soon as possible. It’s taking too long!

“I’m settling in well. The first week I started off a lot slower than I thought I would but I’m up to speed now and hopefully that will continue.”

Reynolds is certainly up to speed, as demonstrated by his dazzling performances in pre-season.

The youngster netted his first goal at Swindon Supermarine on Saturday and terrorized the Chippenham Town defence in Tuesday’s friendly.

“I feel good,” said Reynolds. “My fitness is improving and I feel like I’m doing alright but I like to get goals [in every game] so I’m probably not the happiest with myself for not getting a goal.

“I got an assist so that was alright and we handled the physicality well and we got the win, which is important to me. I’m always trying to win.”

And Reynolds revealed that one piece of advice from England striker Vardy, who went from non-league player to Premier League champion with Leicester City, has stuck with him.

“He’s obviously a big idol for a lot of players in non-league,” he said.

“Never give up was the main point that he was trying to get across.

“He told us to stay focused, know what your target is, work hard and never give up.

“I obviously took that advice and I’m doing well so far.”