NEWPORT County's 21-year old goalkeeper Jacob Giles, pictured, is hoping to cap off the best season of his career with a place in the Conference next term.

Giles replaced Mark Ovendale nine games ago in goal for the Exiles and they've not been beaten since, so he'll retain his place for today's important trip to Sutton United (kick-off 3pm).

The former Huddersfield Town reserve is a student at Bath University and played with Southern League outfit Team Bath last season.

In and out of the side, Giles found himself loaned to Taunton Town, then managed by one Peter Beadle.

Giles impressed and subsequently signed for his former boss in the summer as a back up for Tony Pennock, but after Pennock broke his leg County swooped for Mark Ovendale, who took over as first choice stopper.

Giles looked good in the FA Trophy this season and now he's become number one, he's determined to show the supporters what a good player he can be.

He explained: "Having finally broken into the side, I want to prove to the Newport fans that I am better than they've seen, because I am still not entirely happy with my performances.

"Coming to Newport was such a big deal for me, I was happy to be patient and wait for my chance and now it has come I don't want to waste it.

"Obviously, I would love to be playing in the Conference next year. I still hope to make it as a professional player, 21 is quite young for a goalkeeper and I am really happy I joined County."

Giles admits his relationship with both Ovendale and Pennock has helped him to improve.

"They're both brilliant with me, I don't have any animosity with Mark at all," he said.

"They always look to give me advice and I also play behind a back four in which everyone is very vocal, so that's a help as well.

"We're on a good run and confidence is high, we really believe this is our year."

Giles' task at Sutton today could be a little harder than expected as captain and key defender John Brough is suffering from flu and is a doubt.

He may have caught the illness from boss Beadle who is also under the weather.

If Brough doesn't travel then Stewart Edwards is likely to deputise with Damon Searle taking over the armband.