Newport County AFC face significant selection challenges in midfield for their League Two trip to Notts County this weekend, following a spate of injuries and suspensions.
Head coach Nelson Jardim will need to get creative with his lineup as the Exiles aim to secure a crucial result in the East Midlands.
Key Players Missing
The Exiles have been dealt a major blow with the loss of captain Aaron Wildig for the remainder of the season. Wildig suffered a ruptured knee ligament during the 0-0 draw against Grimsby, leaving a substantial gap in midfield leadership and experience. Adding to the crisis, loanee midfielders Jamie Miley (back injury) and Noah Mawene (hamstring) remain sidelined for at least the next few weeks.
This leaves Bryn Morris as the only fully fit, experienced midfielder available. Jardim may need to rely on EFL novices Kai Whitmore and Cameron Antwi, while Kieron Evans, usually deployed on the wing, is another option for the central role. Defenders such as Shane McLoughlin and Cameron Evans have previously filled in midfield but breaking up the backline could disrupt the defensive stability that earned a clean sheet against Grimsby.
Bobby Kamwa and Other Updates
Winger Bobby Kamwa is also unavailable after sustaining a hamstring strain during the Grimsby match. Kamwa’s injury further limits Jardim’s attacking options, with Michael Spellman emerging as the leading candidate to fill his role against Notts County.
“Bobby will be out at least another week. We don’t want to make the condition worse,” Jardim said.
Additionally, Anthony Glennon, capable of playing at left-back or on the wing, remains out with a back problem, while striker Hamzad Kargbo is nearing a return after a dislocated shoulder but is not yet ready for selection. Defender Kyle Jameson is also unavailable as he serves the final match of his suspension.
Upcoming Challenges
After their clash with Notts County, Newport have a brief respite due to their FA Cup exit. They will return to action with a Tuesday trip to AFC Wimbledon followed by a key home game against struggling Carlisle. Jardim will hope to have some of his injured players back by then to bolster his squad.
Writer’s View
Newport County’s injury woes come at a pivotal stage of the season, with the midfield particularly thin. Jardim’s ability to adapt and find solutions will be tested, but the team’s defensive stability against Grimsby offers a silver lining. With critical fixtures looming, the Exiles must find a way to weather this storm and remain competitive in League Two.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
