Wayne Hatswell expects to lead Newport County at Exeter

The interim manager has led County to a 3-0 win over Scunthorpe United and a 0-0 draw against Bradford City since the sudden departure of club legend Michael Flynn.

Hatswell was also in the hotseat for Tuesday’s 4-3 EFL Trophy defeat to Arsenal U21s and is in charge of preparations for a return to League Two this weekend.

County sporting director Darren Kelly has been in charge of selecting and meeting managerial candidates for the board to interview.

Asked if he would be in charge in Devon, Hatswell said: “I think so, I don’t think much will be done this week as far as an appointment being made.

“I think they will target the week after and I’ve not really had much contact [with the board] this week because we have had games on Saturday and Tuesday to cope with.

“That’s all I know at the moment, though that could change in 24 hours here, you never know.

“I am enjoying it, it has been different but it’s about the lads being responsive to me. I’ve been lucky to be here a long time and the core of the group know me well.”

County coach Wayne Hatswell

Hatswell was a huge influence in the successful Flynn era at Rodney Parade and has remained to ensure some stability after the exit of the boss.

The coach quickly ruled himself out of contention for the top job and is under contract until the summer, revealing that he had been given a number of scenarios to mull over by the board.

“It gave me something to think about but all that I wanted to do was let the dust settle and see how things panned out, to give the club the time to make the right decision,” he said.

“I said that I just want to see how things go, all I wanted them to know was that whatever happens I will do my best for the football club.

“I will maintain that the professionalism and high standards that are key when working in professional football.

“The players are working hard behind the scenes and if I didn’t have that then I would be really disappointed.

“It’s been good so far but everything could change in the next few weeks, and I am probably only here to look after the club while they look to appoint.”

It could well be the case that Hatswell ensures there is a smooth handover for the new boss given a hectic schedule.

ounty have a big block of fixtures with trips to Exeter and Bristol Rovers sandwiching a home encounter with Carlisle, who sacked Chris Beech at the weekend.

The Grecians are a point above the Exiles and have lost just once in the league this season, although they have been frustrated by seven draws to go with three wins.

Legendary County striker Padraig Amond is on loan at St James Park but will be ineligible to face his parent club.