FORMER Newport County AFC defender Chris Todd is certain that new signing Jamie Turley will be a big hit at Rodney Parade.

The Exiles signed Turley on a two-year deal on Wednesday after the centre-back rejected a new contract offer from National League outfit Eastleigh – managed by Todd.

The Spitfires boss, who played for County from 2010 to 2011, is disappointed to see Turley leave Eastleigh but says the club could not stand in the way of his chance to play in the Football League.

And, having played alongside Turley and managed him, he’s convinced that the 26-year-old England C international will succeed in Newport and go on to play at a higher level.

“Jamie is a good player who has done well for us over the past two seasons,” said Todd.

“He’s a talented footballer and a strong, aggressive defender.

“He’s played a big part in this club’s recent history but he’s always wanted to play in the Football League and he’s got his wish.

“I’ve played with him at Forest Green and Salisbury as well as managing him and I always thought he was destined to do well.

“He’s grown in stature since I first met him and I think he can go on to play at an even higher level.”

Todd was a key part of the County side that romped to the Conference South title under Dean Holdsworth in 2010 and he says Turley has made a wise choice with other clubs also chasing his signature.

“He’s gone to a club I know well and it’s a good club – he’ll do well there,” he said.

“I know that the fans are great and I’m sure they’ll take to him and he’ll love it there.

“He’s a very good addition for Newport.”

Todd took charge of Eastleigh last October and the club reached the FA Cup third round before finishing seventh in the National League – five points off the play-offs.

“We want to push for a higher spot next season and I believe we are getting better as time goes on,” he said.

“It’s a shame Jamie isn’t going to be a part of it but that’s football. We wish him well and move on.

“I’m loving being a manager,” added the 34-year-old. “I’m a lot busier and there are so many more things to worry about compared to playing but I’m really enjoying the challenge.

“I will stay registered as a player in case of emergencies. At the moment I haven’t got any centre-halves so I might get a few games!

“But I’m looking at plenty of targets and I’m confident we can get the right people in to build on what we did last season.”