Experienced duo played vital role for Exiles – Flynn

NEWPORT County manager Mike Flynn believes the return to fitness of experienced duo Andrew Crofts and Mark O’Brien made a big difference in their 3-1 win over Northampton on Tuesday.

“The two of them coming back in was big for us,” said the Exiles boss.

“You could see that they improved us on Saturday against Cheltenham [when they came off the bench].

“We looked more solid and it allowed the forward-thinking players to go forward a little more because they knew they had that protection.”

Crofts, who was making his first start since August, was not expected to play the full 90 minutes but Flynn was reluctant to take him off.

He added: “The physio told me at half-time that he’d have to come off but I said ‘there’s not a chance he’s coming off.’

“I went to take him off with two minutes to go but he didn’t want to come off.

“I thought he was excellent. That’s why he’s played at the top level and why he’s such a good professional.

“I’ve told the younger players that they need to look at him and how he conducts himself.

“And that’s why I wanted him here. I wanted him to help the younger boys push forward and that’s what he brings to the table.

“It’s nothing spectacular. He’s not going to do lollipops or drag-backs and stick one in the top corner. Those days are gone.

“What he is going to do is control the game, be in the right positions at the right time and set us on our way.”

Meanwhile, Newport’s League Two rivals Macclesfield yesterday announced former Engalnd defender Sol Campbell as their new manager.

The former Tottenham and Arsenal centre-half signed an 18-month deal with the Silkmen, who last month sacked Mark Yates but are now just four points adrift of safety after beating Exeter on Tuesday.

“It is a great privilege for me to be here, I can’t wait to get going. It has been a long time,” Campbell said in an interview with Silkmen TV.

“Football is in my blood, I want to be a part of football again and this is my first step into a managerial post.

“For me, I see potential, I see growth, I see people fighting to do the right things,” the 44-year-old added.

“I have just got here, (but) all the people around here are very friendly, (there is) great history with the club.

“I am raring to go and ready for the challenge. I know it is going to be a challenge, but that is what I am all about.”