ACADEMY graduate Regan Poole says he has returned to Newport County AFC to win promotion this season.

County have confirmed that the Machester United centre-back, who can also play in midfield, is back at Rodney Parade on loan for the rest of the season.

Poole, who left the Exiles for United in 2015, could feature against Exeter City tomorrow – subject to international clearance – and he’s convinced that Michael Flynn’s men can still challenge at the top of League Two this season.

Speaking to iFollow Exiles, the 20-year-old said: “I'm really happy to be back.

“As soon as I knew the club wanted me back on loan, it was a no-brainer, really.

“I feel like County can get promoted this season and I'm here to try and help them achieve that.”

Poole became the club’s youngest ever player when he made his debut as a 16-year-old back in 2014 after Flynn, who was then in charge of the Exiles academy, recommended the teenager to then first-team boss Justin Edinburgh.

South Wales Argus:

“I'm delighted to have signed Regan,” said the manager.

“He is a player I know well having brought him through the academy ranks during my time as academy manager.

“I knew then of the tremendous qualities Regan has to offer. These will be invaluable to the team in the second half of the season.

“It's a positive for the club that we have been able to sign a player from Manchester United."

Poole spent last season on loan at Northampton Town in League One and has featured regularly for United’s under-23 side during this campaign.

“He needs to play men’s football now,” said Flynn, who believes the youngster can flourish in defence or midfield.

“He can play in midfield as well. I’ve watched him play there quite a few times for Wales [under-21s].

“He’s played there a few times for Manchester United under-23s as well.

“And I always said when he was here, because he reads the game so well and the passing qualities he has, that he could do that. He gives me competition in two places.”