Newport County have announced the signing of striker Luke Jephcott from Scottish Premiership side St Johnstone.
Jephcott is Newport’s first signing of the January transfer window and is expected to bolster the attacking ranks. With plenty of EFL experience to his name, it is a rather shrewd signing by the club.
The 23-year-old had most recently applied his trade for Scottish Premiership side St Johnstone, but things haven’t overly gone to plan north of the border, with the striker now choosing to play in his native wales. It has been revealed that he hasjoined on a free transfer after making just eight appearances for the Saints.
Despite being just 23 years of age, Jephcott already has 138 EFL appearances to his name, through spells with Plymouth Argyle and Swindon Town, the majority of those coming in the third tier. The striker is well known for his time with Argyle and was at one point expected to be their next great striker.
During a five year spell with the Pilgrims, the Welshman would make 118 appearances, notching 37 goals and a further six assists to his tally. He’ll be hoping that a move back to the EFL can reinvigorate his career after struggling in Scotland.
With Newport sat just six points off of the play-off positions, Jephcott may be the man to fire them up the table. That being said they are currently a part of the ultra-competitive mid-table and do still sit 14th.
Manager Graham Coughlan seemed delighted to get the move completed, saying:
“Luke brings us quality and a wealth of experience, not only in League Two but in League One as well.”
“I’ve known him for a while and have recognised his qualities for a long time, so I think it’s a great addition to the squad.
“He’s eager to get going, he’ll strengthen our front-line and we really look forward to working with Luke in the future.”
Jephcott seemed equally as excited with the new opportunity.
“I’m very happy to be here.”
“I’m glad we got it over the line so quickly as well. I’m really looking forward to getting going.
“I’ve heard it’s a fantastic group of boys, so just can’t wait to get in amongst it.”
Writer’s View
We may look back on the signing of Jephcott as one of the signings of the season, as he brings proven goalscoring experience and still has potential to improve at just 23 years of age. Although Newport may struggle to stake a claim for the play-offs this season given the teams above them, they can still challenge for the top half.
Having broken through the ranks at Plymouth at such a young age, Jephcott is obviously an exciting player. If able to find his best, he’ll be a very interesting player to keep an eye on in the second half of the season.
Senior Editor
