FUMING AMOND: I DIDN’T GO ON STRIKE
PROLIFIC striker Padraig Amond has denied going on strike to force through a move from Hartlepool United to Newport County.
The deal was completed on Wednesday for an undisclosed fee, with the 29-year-old Irishman signing a two-year contract at the South Wales club.
The former Grimsby Town man was clearly an important player for Hartlepool, who were reluctant to let him leave.
But they were relegated from League Two last season and manager Craig Harrison claimed that Amond had refused to play in order to force through a move – something he denies.
“The only thing I am really unhappy with is the manager saying I made myself unavailable to play or travel,” said Amond.
“If I refused to play why did the club not fine me two weeks wages?
“I would never do that. No matter how unhappy I am, why would I not turn up at work?
“I’m being painted as a snake, the villain in all of this.
“I told the manager I wanted to leave over the phone at the end of May, I was honest from the start.
“It’s sad the way it has ended but I want Hartlepool to do well, it would be great to be playing them again next season in the league, if we don’t get promoted, that is.”
County boss Michael Flynn revealed that Amond has been one of his key transfer targets all summer and was clearly delighted he was eventually able to pull it off.
“We thought the deal was dead when the first offer was refused,” said Flynn.
“Hartlepool were understandably reluctant to let him go.
“To get a call out of the blue from Craig Harrison last Wednesday saying Padraig could go was a pleasant surprise.”