NEWPORT County AFC manager Warren Feeney wants to further strengthen his squad as the Exiles enter a defining period in their battle to beat the drop in League Two.

County host Mansfield Town on Saturday in the first of nine games in a crucial 31-day period.

And Feeney wants to add more strength in depth to his midfield in particular before the emergency loan window closes on March 24.

“I’m probably looking to bring in another one or two because we’re coming into a very busy month and we’re going to need them,” said the Exiles boss.

“Possibly in and around the middle of the park I might be looking at because we need cover there and possibly down the left side as well.

“We’ve got nine games in a month so it’s going to stretch us to the max and a couple of injuries and you’re back to square one.

“I’m always looking to add quality players.”

Feeney wants his team to make a decisive move up the table and away from danger in the next four weeks.

“This month will start to dictate where people are going to finish,” he said.

“If we get through it well then there’s a possibility that we will be in a fantastic position.

“People will look at it and say it’s a big month and it’s make or break but teams are going to win games and lose games and it’s how you respond.

“There’s a long, long way to go. We’re sitting in a good position and it’s in our hands but you just don’t want to be looking at the teams below you, you want to be looking at the teams above us.

“We are catching a few of them but you know it can change so quick in football and that’s why we have got to keep our feet firmly on the ground and worry about one game at a time.”

Defender Matt Partridge has had a setback in his recovery and misses out this weekend with bone bruising around his ankle.

Forward Deane Smalley has gone back to Plymouth with a knee problem that will be assessed before any decision is made on his loan stay at Rodney Parade.

But defender Janoi Donacien and Scott Barrow should be available and striker Lenell John-Lewis is making good progress in his recovery from a ruptured hamstring.

“Lenny is in the gym working hard and he seems to heal quite quickly so I’d like to have him back hopefully before the end of the season,” said Feeney.