Nick Townsend has called time on his seven-year spell at Newport County, departing the League Two club following the expiration of his contract.
The 29-year-old goalkeeper had been offered a new deal but opted to seek a new challenge after making 209 appearances for the Exiles.
Fan favourite to depart Rodney Parade
A fan favourite at Rodney Parade, Townsend was twice named Newport’s Supporters’ Player of the Year—in both the 2023–24 and 2024–25 campaigns—highlighting his consistency and importance to the side. His departure follows the recent arrival of new manager David Hughes, who has already lined up a replacement, with the club confirming personal terms have been agreed with a new goalkeeper.
Born in Solihull, Townsend began his career with Birmingham City, having come through the youth ranks at the club he supported as a boy. Although he never made a senior appearance for the Blues, he gained valuable experience on loan with Oxford City and Lincoln City, where he played 12 games at the end of the 2013–14 season and returned for an extended loan the following year.
After stints at Barnsley and Solihull Moors, Townsend joined Newport in 2018 and quickly established himself as a reliable figure between the posts. He was part of the squad that reached the League Two play-off final in 2021, though he was an unused substitute at Wembley in the narrow defeat to Morecambe.
During his time with County, Townsend developed into one of the most consistent goalkeepers in the fourth tier. He played under a succession of managers and remained a mainstay in the side, even as the club endured managerial turnover and fluctuating fortunes in the league.
His performances not only earned him accolades at club level but also international recognition. Townsend is an Antigua and Barbuda international, adding international experience to his domestic pedigree.
In a statement, the club said:
“Newport County would like to thank Nick for his service, commitment and dedication over the last seven years and wish him well with his new challenge.”
Although Townsend has not yet confirmed his next destination, his form over the past two seasons is likely to attract attention from several EFL clubs and beyond.
Writer’s View
Nick Townsend’s departure will leave a significant void at Rodney Parade, both on and off the pitch. As a reliable last line of defence and a popular figure with supporters, his exit brings an end to one of the club’s longest-serving modern-era careers.
With more than 200 appearances and two Player of the Year titles, he departs having cemented his place in Newport County history. For David Hughes, replacing both the ability and leadership of Townsend will be no small task—but the incoming goalkeeper will have big gloves to fill.
