Newport County AFC head coach Nelson Jardim has made it clear that defensive reinforcements will be top of the shopping list this summer, as the club aims to build on a turbulent League Two season.
The Exiles are closing in on safety ahead of their Good Friday clash against Milton Keynes Dons, where a win would secure their place in the division for another year. A fortunate set of results could even confirm it without a ball being kicked at Stadium MK.
While many had tipped County for relegation struggles, a solid start to the campaign and a vital run in February steered them away from serious trouble. However, Jardim is under no illusions about the work needed to climb the table in 2025/26.
Shaky Foundations Need Strengthening
Newport’s defensive issues have been a recurring theme. With an average of 1.7 goals conceded per game, their record lags well behind that of the division’s best, including promotion hopefuls like Bradford City and Wimbledon.
Jardim pointed to the instability caused by injuries, red cards and enforced team changes as key reasons for their vulnerability at the back.
“There have been a lot of highs and lows. The lows have been connected to injuries, sendings off and changes [to the team]. It makes it difficult when you cannot settle at the back. Defensively, I never felt we were strong enough. We know how defending well and conceding few goals helps, that’s why Bradford and Wimbledon are up there.”
Nick Townsend’s status as the division’s busiest goalkeeper underlines the problem, while set-piece frailties have repeatedly cost County crucial points. The late concession against Colchester United last weekend, where Fiacre Kelleher found the net unmarked, was a painful reminder of those ongoing flaws.
Jardim admitted that while he shoulders overall responsibility, the players also need to maintain their focus during crucial moments of matches.
Recruitment will now focus heavily on shoring up a backline that has too often creaked under pressure. With Jardim clear on his vision, supporters will hope the club can act decisively once the window opens.
Site opinion
There is no doubt Newport have defied some expectations this season, but they have done so in spite of defensive fragility rather than because of any real solidity. Jardim’s brutally honest assessment shows a manager who recognises what needs to change if the Exiles are to move beyond merely surviving. A more settled and resilient defence could transform County’s prospects, and fans will be watching the summer recruitment drive with great interest. This could be the most important transfer window for Newport in years.
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