NEWPORT County AFC defender Ryan Jackson is ready to play through the pain barrier against his boyhood club AFC Wimbledon.

The 23-year-old from Streatham started his career with the south London outfit and he isn’t going to let a nasty ankle gash picked up at Portsmouth last week keep him out of Saturday’s clash at Rodney Parade.

Jackson had stitches in the wound after the 2-0 win at Fratton Park and, having trained this week, is ready to play if selected.

“I went up for a header and their guy landed on my ankle with his studs,” he explained.

“It left a big gash and it was pretty painful but the adrenaline kicks in when you’re playing so I got through the game.

“The Portsmouth doctor put stitches in for me after the game. He didn’t tell me how many and I wasn’t watching so I don’t know but he did a good job.

“I’ve trained this week and it feels fine so I should be alright to play on Saturday.”

Jackson, naturally a right-sided defender, is set to continue at left wing-back and he’s happy to play there after setting up both goals for Mike Flynn against Pompey.

“As long as I’m playing I’m happy to play anywhere really,” he said. “The gaffer believes in me to play me on the left and I’ll do a job for the team.

“I was happy to contribute and make a couple of goals for Flynny – he owes me a nice Christmas present now!

“The win was a big one for us because we hadn’t been getting the wins on the road so that was reward for all the hard work we’ve put in,” he added.

“Winning in front of 15,000 fans is a big confidence boost as well and if we can beat Wimbledon it will put us in good stead going into the Christmas and New Year games.”

And Jackson is keen to impress against his old club and in front of his friends and family this weekend.

“I try to approach every game the same,” he said. “You just have to go out there and give your best for the team no matter where you’re playing or who you’re playing against.

“But taking on Wimbledon has a bit more meaning for me because it is my old club and that’s where I started as a boy.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the old coaches and my family are coming up from London as well.

“They’ve got a bit more League experience than us but we are in good form and we’re confident taking on anyone.

“And we’re doing very well at home so we’ll be looking to start off sharp as we always do and get another win.”