NEWPORT County AFC welcome back Mark O’Brien from suspension for Sunday’s FA Cup third round clash with Leeds United at Rodney Parade and manager Michael Flynn hopes to have three new faces available.

Central defender O’Brien is likely to start after serving a three-game ban for the red card he received against Lincoln City on December 23.

Veteran striker Paul Hayes, who was signed in October, could make a belated debut after his registration issues were finally resolved this week.

“I hope he’s available, heads will roll otherwise,” joked Flynn.

“He’s an experienced player who has fitted in really well with the rest of the lads and I am looking forward to getting him back out on the pitch.

“He’s ready to go, he’s keen, his appetite is there and he’ll be a big asset until the end of the season.”

And the Exiles boss is hopeful that two more new signings will be completed in time for them to feature on Sunday (kick-off 12pm).

“Yes, there will be another couple in,” he said. “Two more that we hope are available for the weekend.”

New loan signing Aaron Collins and fellow forward Aaron Williams, who has just returned from a successful loan spell at Brackley Town, are both cup-tied this weekend.

Sean Rigg and Calaum Jahraldo-Martin have recovered from hip and hamstring injuries respectively and are back in training.

Striker Marlon Jackson is still ruled out with a hamstring problem.

Leeds head coach Thomas Christiansen could make changes to his side after a busy festive schedule in the Championship.

Ronaldo Vieira missed United's last two fixtures and could return, as could Stuart Dallas after a stint out injured. Luke Ayling is doubtful after being withdrawn early into the New Year's Day clash with Nottingham Forest and Caleb Ekuban is still ruled out.

Flynn insists there is no pressure on his side going into the match.

“It’s a free shot for us. I can’t wait for it,” he said.

“I’m kind of happy now that the pitch is a little bit bobbly because it works in our favour.

“Leeds are a good footballing team and they won’t want to come to Rodney Parade.

“It’s a free shot for us and we’ll be giving it our all and hoping that we cause an upset.”

Robbie Willmott, who scored the winner against Exeter City on New Year’s Day, believes County can shock Leeds.

“It is like a free game, really,” he said.

“There’s no pressure on us. All the pressure is on Leeds.

“We can just go out there and express ourselves.

“The TV cameras will be here and that gives everyone another incentive.”

Willmott added: “I think teams now know that if they come to Rodney Parade it’s going to be a difficult game.

“We don’t let anyone have an easy game.

“The fans get on top of the players.

“And Leeds have struggled over the last few years in the FA Cup. They’ve been knocked out by a few lower league sides so let’s hope we can do it and put them out of the cup.”