
Newport County’s on-loan striker Kyle Hudlin has come under heavy criticism from former Everton and Wales captain Kevin Ratcliffe, who suggested the 24-year-old “should find another sport to play” following a series of unimpressive performances.
Hudlin, on loan from League One side Huddersfield Town, has managed just four goals in 22 appearances this season. Newport County’s recent form has left them struggling in 20th place in League Two, just six points clear of the relegation zone. The Exiles’ latest setback was a 3-2 defeat to Port Vale, where they squandered a two-goal lead.
Ratcliffe’s Blistering Assessment
During BBC Radio Wales’ commentary of the Port Vale match, Ratcliffe, a former centre-back, voiced his disappointment with Hudlin’s contribution:
“They brought the lad Hudlin on and I’m afraid, for me, he should go and find another sport to play because he’s not been impressive to me whatsoever. I’ve seen him at Harrogate and Tranmere, and he needs to be better, especially if he’s come from a place like Huddersfield and is learning the game. He’s learning it the hard way.”
Hudlin, known for his towering 6ft 9in frame, was introduced as a substitute in the 71st minute but failed to make an impact. Ratcliffe also highlighted Newport’s lack of physicality across the squad, arguing that it contributed to their struggles against more combative opponents.
“When it comes to a battle, they come off second best all the time,” Ratcliffe added. “That’s what Port Vale worked out at half-time. Newport lost their way in the second half.”
A Tough Period for Newport County
The loss to Port Vale marks Newport’s fourth successive defeat, extending a poor run of just two wins in their last 16 games. Manager Nelson Jardim now finds himself under increasing pressure, with Ratcliffe pointing to squad deficiencies as a significant factor.
“As a manager, you’re judged on results, and the results have not been good enough,” Ratcliffe stated. “He’s got to have stronger players in the squad. When you go man-to-man against them and match them, that’s when it becomes evident they lack in height and physicality.”
Site Opinion
Kevin Ratcliffe’s scathing remarks about Kyle Hudlin are a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of professional football. While Hudlin’s height makes him a unique asset, it’s clear he needs to develop other aspects of his game to compete effectively at this level. At 24, time is still on his side, but Ratcliffe’s comments underline the need for rapid improvement.
For Newport County, the issues appear to extend beyond Hudlin. A lack of physicality and mental resilience is contributing to their poor form, and Jardim’s future at the helm may depend on addressing these problems quickly. With just six points separating them from the relegation zone, the Exiles must turn things around to avoid a battle for survival in the latter stages of the season.
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