Shane McLoughlin has left Newport County after turning down a new contract offer from the League Two club.
The 28-year-old was offered fresh terms following the 2024/25 campaign but failed to respond within the agreed timeframe, prompting his departure from Rodney Parade.
Experienced Utility Man Moves On
McLoughlin played 39 times last season across all competitions, scoring three goals and wearing the captain’s armband on several occasions. His departure brings an end to a two-year spell in South Wales, where he made 81 appearances and netted nine goals after joining from Salford City in July 2023.
Despite being offered a one-year extension, Newport confirmed on 1 July that McLoughlin had not taken up the deal in time. The club thanked him for his “service and commitment” and wished him well in his next move, as preparations continue for the 2025/26 League Two campaign under manager Graham Coughlan.
Originally born in the Bronx, New York, McLoughlin grew up in County Kerry and began his youth career with Ipswich Town in 2013. He made his senior debut for the Tractor Boys in the EFL Cup against Crystal Palace in 2017 and later featured in loan spells with Bromley in the National League.
His most substantial league involvement came with AFC Wimbledon, where he made 71 appearances between 2019 and 2021, scoring three goals. A two-year stint at Morecambe followed, before a brief spell at Salford City in early 2023. Though he featured just ten times for the Ammies, the move led to a quick switch to Newport that summer.
McLoughlin was one of the more consistent performers in a Newport side that flirted with the play-off conversation before fading late in the season. His ability to play in both midfield and defence made him a key figure across two campaigns, and his versatility ensured regular minutes even during tactical reshuffles.
Internationally, McLoughlin represented the Republic of Ireland at U16 and U18 levels. Still only 28, he has amassed over 210 senior appearances across the EFL and National League and is now available as a free agent.
With McLoughlin moving on, Newport may now look to reinforce their midfield and defensive options ahead of the new season. The club’s retained list included offers to several senior players, but departures like this suggest there may be further reshaping still to come.
Writer’s View
This is a disappointing outcome for Newport given McLoughlin’s importance over the past two years. He wasn’t just a squad filler—he was a leader on and off the pitch, often wearing the armband and featuring heavily across multiple positions. That kind of utility is difficult to replace at League Two level, especially without paying a premium.
It’s possible he has a League One offer on the table or simply wanted a fresh challenge after two solid campaigns. Either way, it leaves a gap for Coughlan to fill quickly if County want to build momentum early next season.
