Newport County have announced that assistant head coach Dafydd Williams and goalkeeping coach Rob Thomas have both left the club by mutual consent following the conclusion of the League Two season.
The pair were part of Nelson Jardim’s support staff during a mixed 2024/25 campaign, and their exits mark the first changes ahead of a wider summer reshuffle. The club confirmed that a new coaching structure, along with the retained and released list, will be made public in the next fortnight.
Dafydd Williams
Williams initially arrived at Rodney Parade in July 2023 under former boss Graham Coughlan, joining as first team coach. When Jardim was appointed in the summer of 2024, Williams was elevated to assistant head coach and eventually took interim charge for the final two matches of the season.
Still just 30, Williams has spent over a decade building his coaching CV after stepping away from playing aged 17. He gained experience at academy level with Cardiff City and Swansea City before holding development roles at Bristol Rovers, Gloucester City and Barry Town United.
Rob Thomas
Goalkeeping specialist Thomas joined the Exiles in October and brought with him a strong reputation in Welsh football. His background includes two seasons with Haverfordwest County in the Cymru Premier and a 15-year stint with the FAW Trust, where he served as National Goalkeeper Coach Education Coordinator. He has been instrumental in raising the standard of goalkeeping coaching across Wales, delivering education up to UEFA Goalkeeping A Licence level.
“It goes without saying that we thank both Daf and Rob for their efforts and commitment to the club during their time here,” said Newport chairman Huw Jenkins. “I’m sure they will be successful with their new challenges ahead and everyone at the club wishes them well for the future.”
Newport are now turning their attention to shaping the future coaching team. After finishing mid-table and missing out on the play-offs, Jardim is expected to have a key role in selecting his new backroom staff.
Writer’s View
The departure of Dafydd Williams and Rob Thomas signals a new chapter at Newport County as Nelson Jardim looks to mould a team in his own image. Williams’ rapid rise in the coaching ranks reflects his potential, while Thomas’ reputation in Welsh goalkeeper development speaks for itself.
Both leave with credit, but with changes clearly underway at Rodney Parade, the focus now shifts to who will help lead the club forward. With key off-field appointments imminent, the coming weeks could be crucial in shaping County’s ambitions for the 2025/26 season.
