NEWPORT County AFC midfielder Mike Flynn says he’s delighted to have persuaded manager Justin Edinburgh to keep him on board at Rodney Parade.

Flynn and David Pipe were told in February that there was no future for them at the club beyond this summer.

Caerphilly-born Pipe was released by mutual consent last month but hometown hero Flynn has managed to convince Edinburgh to reverse his decision.

The 33-year-old has impressed with his performances in the heart of the Exiles midfield over the last three months.

And he has captained the side on numerous occasions, including last Saturday as County ended their first League Two campaign with a morale-boosting 2-1 win over promoted Rochdale.

It was shortly before that match that Edinburgh told Flynn that he now wanted him to stay and the former Wigan and Bradford star couldn’t be happier.

“I’ve been on a high since the weekend,” said Flynn.

“The gaffer told me he wants me to stay on and I’m delighted I’ve been able to change his mind.

“I’ve had some nice words from the chairman and Howard Greenhaf as well and the rest of the lads are all happy for me.

“It’s humbling really and I’m glad it’s over because it’s been a stressful few months.”

Flynn has yet to sign a new contract but he doesn’t expect there to be any sticking points and he is certain that he’ll be pulling on an amber shirt again next season.

“I’ll speak to the manager after I’ve had a break and we’ll talk about the new contract and possibly a coaching role as well,” he said.

“The sooner it’s done the better but I don’t foresee any problems with it.

“I’ve shown my commitment this season by taking clauses out of my contract and everyone knows I love playing for this club.

“I could have thrown my toys out of the pram when I was told I was going but the gaffer knows I’m not like that.

“We have a good relationship and I’m delighted I’ll still be around next season.”

And, after Saturday’s win over third-placed Rochdale, Flynn is optimistic about the team’s prospects.

“It was great to finish on a high because teams do take that momentum into the following season,” he added.

“We showed some glimpses of what we can do and I was pleased that the fans had a good final day because they deserve it.

“I really believe that we can push on next year and I’m so happy that I’m going to be a part of it.”