GOALKEEPER Duncan Roberts may be withdrawn from Peter Nicholas' Newport County squad while an internal disciplinary inquiry into his post-match conduct after Wednesday night's defeat to Weston-super-Mare, writes Peter Shuttleworth.

The 24-year-old, who has made only ten appearances for the Dr Martens League Exiles, allegedly threatened, verbally abused and made hand gestures his OWN fans as he walked from the Spytty Park pitch following the 4-1 loss to Weston.

Newport chairman Wallace Brown apparently also saw Roberts' actions.

Roberts reacted after the home support criticised him for making mistakes in the game. County's faithful also feel angry that Nicholas froze-out and eventually let-go former No 1 Pat Mountain, an icon with the County faithful after 205 games and four-and-a-half years at the club.

Nicholas last night branded the supporters' treatment of Roberts 'out-of-order' and fumed: "The fans haven't given him a chance."

Nevertheless, County will take a hard line if Roberts is found guilty by the club's disciplinary panel. Roberts' contract, which expires next summer, could be terminated if he is found guilty of any indiscretion.

After an emergency board meeting, called to discuss the issue, director Steve Sulley revealed last night: "There is a case to be answered as serious allegations have been made.

"Newport County take the claims very seriously and will launch a full disciplinary inquiry into the matter as there are questions that need to be answered.

"The inquiry will start today but may not end for some time while we hear evidence. However, a decision will be made today about Duncan Roberts' availability for the first-team game with Chelmsford City tomorrow."

With Mountain now signed on at County's Dr Martens League rivals Chippenham Town, Nicholas' No 2 'keeper Gareth Wesson is awaiting a call for tomorrow's Premier Division home clash with bottom-of-the-table Chelmsford City.