NEWPORT County AFC will not have a new head coach in place when they return to pre-season training on Monday, but the new-look squad is in capable hands.
The Exiles are searching for a head coach following the departures of manager Graham Coughlan and his assistant Joe Dunne. Although they begin preparations for the League Two season on Monday, owner Huw Jenkins is not rushing to appoint a new head coach.
Jenkins is willing to be patient to find the right person who aligns with his footballing philosophy. The former Swansea chief has emphasized his desire for County to develop a consistent identity throughout the club.
In the meantime, Jenkins has been active in recruitment, working with head of football operations Chris Finn and his scouting network to make signings. While he narrows down candidates for the head coach position, the existing coaching staff will oversee the squad’s training.
The first week of pre-season will focus heavily on fitness and administrative tasks, with head of performance Scott Wickens ready to push the players hard. First-team coach Dafydd Williams, who joined last summer after stints at Gloucester City and Barry Town United, remains in position alongside Jim Hollman, who is more than just a goalkeeping coach.
Analyst Conor McGaharan, a UEFA A licence holder and former Port Talbot manager, is also on staff, as well as club greats David Pipe and Mark O’Brien, serving as kitman and player liaison officer, respectively.
County is also expected to add a new coach to their backroom staff next week, as Jenkins aims to provide more support for the development of the many up-and-coming prospects he has signed.
Following the departure of Sophie Birnie, who has joined League Two rivals Carlisle, Newport County AFC is also seeking to fill the position of head physio.
Meanwhile, former boss Graham Coughlan expressed pride in his tenure at Rodney Parade, stating in a statement released by the League Managers Association:
“To the staff and players of Newport County, I want to express my gratitude and admiration. It was an honor, a privilege, and a pleasure to work with you all over the last two seasons. To our fantastic fans, we had our highs and lows, but your loyal and unwavering support was unbelievable and deeply appreciated by myself, the staff, and the players.
“Constantly battling against all odds is never easy, but the players embraced it, giving their all every day, demonstrating resilience and upholding the values and principles of the Newport community. We achieved a lot in the last two seasons, created wonderful memories, and came very close to achieving the impossible.
“Finally, I would like to extend my best wishes to everyone at the club for the upcoming season.”
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