New signing Oliver Greaves is determined to make up for lost time at Newport County and prove he has what it takes to make his mark in League Two.
Greaves had a promising career ahead of him after coming through the ranks at Sheffield United to earn a professional contract with the Blades, only to suffer a serious injury at 20.
It forced him to leave the professional game in 2020 and rebuild his career in non-league with the likes of Dover Athletic and Buxton (National League), plus Spanish club CD Almuñécar City.
But having made a full recovery, Greaves announced his return to top form with 24 goals in 48 appearances from midfield last season with Mickleover FC in the Southern League Premier Division.
“There was quite a bit of interest from a number of professional clubs last season,’’ explained Greaves. “But as soon as I heard about the Newport interest, I couldn’t wait to get it over the line. I’m buzzing.
“Unfortunately, I had to drop out of the professional game, which was hard, but I’ve got the other side of non-league football under my belt now, including a spell in Spain, so I can’t wait to get going again.
“I’ve got a lot of strings to my bow, and hopefully every bit of experience I’ve gained I can carry into Newport.
“I’d say I’m an attack-minded player; I like to create chances and make thing happen. Scoring and assisting is what I base my game on.’’
Greaves, who also had a loan spell at League Two Barrow during his time at Sheffield United, added: “I had quite a good season last year and I can’t wait to get going again.
“I’ve heard nothing but good things about the fans and the club, and I just can’t wait to play in front of them.
“I think we’ve definitely got to be up there by the end of the season. We need to be up there competing and perhaps a cup run might be nice as well.”
Watch Oliver Greaves' first interview as an Exile HERE.