AARON O’Connor admits he faced an agonising decision as to whether to stay at Newport County AFC, but ultimately he made a choice of the heart.

The 29-year-old, who scored his 20th goal of the season at Wembley to seal County’s promotion to the Football League, has penned a two-year deal to stay at Rodney Parade.

The Argus broke the welcome news yesterday and also confirmed that O’Connor had other offers on the table.

However, it would appear his services were in even greater demand that first thought and the former Mansfield and Luton striker admitted he was extremely uncertain as to what decision to make.

“As a 29-year-old, and as a player who has just enjoyed a big season, I felt I owed it to myself and to my family to listen to what everyone had to say,” he said.

“I am not going to lie, when you’re getting offers for more money and in a higher division, it’s very tempting to just say yes, because ultimately we all work to live, whatever job you do.

“I had quite a few options and it takes time, because you have to wait until everything is on the table.

“This wasn’t an easy decision to make and I’m not going to pretend otherwise.”

O’Connor ultimately opted to remain with Newport because he feels it’s the best fit for him as a player and as a person.

“If I didn’t believe in the club, in the players and in the manager I wouldn’t have stayed, but I absolutely do, I think we can kick on and progress next season,” he said.

“But for me it’s everything combined, it’s a decision made with my heart and my head and definitely isn’t about the money because I had higher offers.

“When I weighed up all the pros and cons about staying at Newport, there were no cons.

“I like the club, fans, players, gaffer and I’m happy and settled in the area as well.

“All of that is important. More important than money.”

O’Connor could have moved closer to his native Nottinghamshire but questioned why any player would be influenced by a desire to be closer to home.

“I’ve never thought like that,” he said. “You can miss home but I’m only two-and-a-bit hours away.

“I’ve always found that in terms of my focus and concentration, generally it’s better for me to be somewhere away from home.”

O’Connor has complete faith that the Exiles can enjoy another fine campaign.

“We’ve retained the core of the squad and I know the gaffer is planning to bring in some fresh faces too,” he said.

“The future is bright at Newport. I’m convinced of that.”

The Exiles will now try and secure some new signings this week with talks ongoing, before boss Edinburgh embarks on a short family holiday.