Glentoran striker Andy Smith is in superb form

Andy Smith has enjoyed one of those seasons that footballers dream about.

The Glentoran striker has already bagged 33 goals, picked up two cup winners medals and is now on the standby list for Northern Ireland's Euro 2004 qualifiers against Armenia and Greece.

It could get even better with the East Belfast club nine points clear at the top of the Irish League Premier Division and into the last four of the Irish Cup.

The 22-year-old from Lisburn has played a key role in the Glens' bid for the 'quadruple', the spearhead of a team which has netted 112 times in what promises to be a historic campaign.

Wonderful time

He is a firm fans favourite, helped by the peroxide blonde's cheeky goal celebrations and the fact that the Glens have won every game in which he has scored.

Not surprisingly Smith is more than happy to be plying his trade in Roy Coyle's classy side.

"I've had a wonderful time at Glentoran and have improved as a player in my short period at the Oval," he said.

"I'm delighted with my goals tally but not surprised because I get great service from quality players.

"Winning all four competitions would of course be fantastic but we are just focused on winning each game which I think is the best approach."

I am playing with confidence and I believe I can be a success in a full-time league. Andy Smith

Smith started out with Ballyclare Comrades before getting his big break in September 1999 with a move to Nationwide First Division club Sheffield United.

Ankle and shoulder injuries curtailed his chances at Brammell Lane and he returned home to rebuild his his career with Glenavon a year later before the successful switch to Glentoran in February 2002.

His spell with the Blades has given Smith a taste for life in the full-time game.

And he hopes he can follow former Glens stars Stuart Elliott, Glenn Little and Andy Kirk in landing a cross-channel move.

"I'm loving my time at the Oval but I would like to see if I could make it over there," said Smith.

"I've still a contract with Glentoran although it's nice that people are linking me with club scouts at our games.

"I am playing with confidence and I believe I can be a success in a full-time league."

One person he has certainly impressed is Northern Ireland boss Sammy McIlroy.

Chances of a move will certainly be boosted after Smith was named on the international standby list for the upcoming Euro double-header on March 29 and April 2.

There had been calls for Smith's inclusion in the squad but he believes McIlroy is right to go first with players in the professional leagues.

Northern Ireland manager Sammy McIlroy

And he also gives his backing to the current Northern Ireland strikeforce despite a record-equalling six games without a goal.

"I think it's only fair to pick from the more competitive full-time leagues and I can't fault the strikers because with a bit more luck we would have scored in recent matches," he said.

"I did not expect to be involved in the international set-up so I was both surprised and delighted to be told I was on standby for such important games.

"It's always been an ambition to represent my country and it is a boost to know Sammy McIlroy thinks I'm good enough.

"I'll just have to see what happens but I know that if the chance comes along I'll give it my best shot."