CAPTAIN Joss Labadie believes a rock solid team spirit gives Newport County AFC a chance of causing an upset against Leeds United this afternoon.

County host the Championship giants in front of the TV cameras in the FA Cup third round at Rodney Parade (kick-off 12pm).

And Labadie says the Exiles’ team ethic gives them a chance of shocking Leeds.

“I’ve been in the game since I was 17 as a professional and this is easily the best dressing room I’ve been in,” said the skipper.

“That’s testament to the gaffer and Hats [assistant Wayne Hatswell] doing their research on the players and bringing them in.

“It’s a real good team spirit we’ve got right now.

“The gaffer is Newport through and through and what the boys went through last year has given us a strong affiliation with the club.

“Any new signings who walk through the door instantly feel that and they know they’re coming into a family-orientated club.

“They have to put their neck on the line for the club every week as the rest of us do.”

Labadie put County 1-0 up when the sides met in the Carabao Cup at Elland Road in August and, even though the hosts ran out 5-1 winners that day, he says Leeds won’t be relishing their trip to Newport.

“All the boys enjoyed themselves at Elland Road the last time,” he said.

“This time, I think it will be a different for them. The pitch won’t be as nice, which could work to our advantage. Everyone is looking forward to the game.”

Labadie took on Premier League outfit Everton in the FA Cup third round when he was with Dagenham & Redbridge and he can’t wait to test himself against Leeds’ star men.

“It’s nice to compare yourself to these players because it’s easy to watch them on TV and criticise them but you don’t realise how good they are until you’re on the same pitch as them,” said the 27-year-old.

“It’s a great experience for any lower league player coming up against a Championship or a Premier League player.”