Morgan returns to County (From South Wales Argus)

Morgan returns to County

11:10am Friday 14th January 2011 in Latest Football By Andrew Penman

TIM Harris’ first act as caretaker manager was to agree a deal with Swansea City for Kerry Morgan to return to Newport County.

The 22-year-old winger, who was sent back to the Liberty Stadium late last month, is back for a third loan spell at Spytty Park – this time until the end of the season.

And he looks likely to be thrown straight back into the starting line-up for tomorrow’s FA Trophy second round tie at Mansfield Town.

Darryl Knights is struggling with an ankle injury and fellow winger Graeme Montgomery is cup-tied.

“Kerry is back with us until the end of the season and we’re delighted that he and Swansea agreed to the deal,” said Harris.

“He hasn’t reached the heights of last season with us but he needs games and I’ll give him and others who maybe haven’t got an opportunity the chance to stake their claim for a place in the side.”

Striker Robbie Matthews is also a doubt for tomorrow’s match at Field Mill due to his persistent hamstring problem.

But Harris’ real problems will come in defence with captain Gary Warren and his potential replacement Jamie Collins both suspended following their red cards at Tamworth on Tuesday.

And experienced player-coach Wayne Hatswell, who could also have filled in alongside Chris Todd at centre-back, is unavailable as he’s on honeymoon.

“It’s a big blow that we haven’t got Wayne here this week on the playing and coaching front,” added Harris.

“He’s very experienced and with Gary possibly being banned for four games after his second red of the season he will be important for us.”

Harris will look to add some emergency cover at centre-back before kick-off but with time running out he may be forced to deploy utility player Eddie Odhiambo at the back or start with youngster Andrew Hughes.

“It’s a squad game and I have confidence in the players,” he said. “The league is our priority but we need to get back to winning ways and the Trophy is our first opportunity to do that.”