Ahead of Tuesday's home game against Newport County, we spoke to Chris Kirwan of the South Wales Argus to find out more about Boro's upcoming opposition...
- Newport have got off to a brilliant start this season – what do you put this success down to?
"County have started well thanks to competition for places. Michael Flynn has managed to build a strong squad with everybody under threat for their places. Previously they were reliant on a small core but he should be able to rotate in this hectic season. Flynn will hope that they can avoid injuries because misfortune on that front derailed them last season."
- You have reported that the team are playing a new, more exciting brand of football this season – what changes are visible to the eye?
"County are keen to play out from the back and to use the likes of Josh Sheehan and Scott Twine, who are two real talents in midfield. They are playing with three at the back and have prospered thanks to Ryan Haynes and Liam Shephard bombing down the flanks. It’s working well but they will be keen to show that they can mix it physically as the weather turns, and they did that against Tranmere on Saturday."
- Do you believe that the early season form is sustainable for a strong push at promotion this season?
"It is early days but County have a good squad; as I said earlier, avoiding lengthy injuries is key. They also need those that have been on the fringes a bit so far to step up when the chances come. Padraig Amond has been top scorer for the last three seasons but has been in and out of the side so far – fingers crossed he can go on a scoring streak."
- Who is the one player to watch out for?
"Lennie Lawrence will know all about Josh Sheehan. He is a class act and pulls the strings for County from midfield. Teams look to shut him down but he is comfortable under pressure and keeps things ticking along. He has the ability to play at a higher level and Exiles fans will hope that happens with them in 2021/22, because teams will be sniffing."
- Finally, what is your score prediction?
"I am rubbish at predictions! County have played some good stuff this season but games have been in the balance apart from the 2-0 win at Bolton. I will go for a 2-1 away win."
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