EXILES FACING BATTLE TO KEEP LABADIE
NEWPORT are hoping to tie up midfielder Joss Labadie on a long-term contract, but manager Michael Flynn admits it might be difficult to keep hold of him.
The 27-year-old former West Brom trainee arrived at Rodney Parade in June last year from relegated Dagenham and had notched five goals from midfield this season ahead of the weekend.
Flynn is only too aware that, if Labadie continues to be a goal threat, clubs from higher divisions will come calling.
Flynn said: “I’ve told him about the timing of his runs into the box.
“If he does that, he’s going to keep adding goals to his game and I don’t think we’ll keep hold of him for much longer.”
Labadie himself revealed that contract talks are ongoing with Newport and underlined his desire to remain in Wales, having settled in well for the Exiles.
“We’ve had initial discussions, but nothing is set in stone just yet,” said Labadie.
“I’m happy. I’m enjoying my time here and that’s all that matters at the moment.
“I’m looking to get Newport into the play-offs and out of this league, so that’s my main focus.
“I love Newport. I love the players, the staff, the fans. I’m happy here right now and my sole focus is on getting promotion.”
Newport entered the weekend just outside the play-off places and Labadie is backing the side to mount a legitimate promotion challenge.
“The morale is really good in the squad,” he added. “All the boys are happy and looking forward to the festive period.
“We’ve not done anything yet – it’s only half way through the season – but it is nice to be looking up rather than down.
“And there’s no reason why we can’t target the play-offs.”