Flynn out to keep home fire burning
NEWPORT County welcome Notts County to Rodney Parade in League Two this evening in the first of three home games in a row.
After opening the season with a 3-0 loss at Mansfield Town, the Exiles have bounced back with a win over Crewe Alexandra and a draw at league leaders Exeter City.
They also cruised to a 4-1 victory over Cambridge United in the Carabao Cup, so Flynn will be hoping for more of the same against a Notts County side, who have conceded nine goals in their last three games.
Kevin Nolan’s men have had a challenging start to the season with defeats to Yeovil Town and Cambridge United coming after a goalless draw with Colchester United on the opening day.
Confidence will be high in the Newport camp after Mark Harris’ late equaliser handed them a credible draw at St James Park and Flynn is pleased with how is squad is looking.
“Mark [O’Brien] is back and that gives us more competitions for places,” he said.
“He’s going to be frustrated missing the start of the season but the boys at the back have been outstanding so he’s got to earn the right to get back in the team.
“I want this healthy competition and I want to be sitting down with players explaining why I’ve left them out.
“I don’t want easy decisions to make and I’ll always decide 100 per cent on what I think is best for Newport County.”
Flynn has somewhat of a selection headache up front after Harris, Antoine Semenyo, Jamille Matt and Padraig Amond all found the net last week, while club captain Andrew Crofts could return after a toe infection.
Veteran defender David Pipe is a doubt after his half-time withdrawal at Exeter, while Robbie Willmott remains sidelined.
“I think he [Pipe] had a kick on his leg so he’s got a bit of a lump there. It was sore at half time so he couldn’t carry on,” continued Flynn.
“It’s one of those where it might settle down quickly but it’ll be a tough game.
“Robbie is still out, I’m not sure how long that’s going to be.”
The Exiles host Grimsby on Saturday before welcoming Oxford United in the Carabao Cup next week.