NEWPORT County AFC manager Michael Flynn admits he won’t be able to keep hold of Joe Day for much longer if the goalkeeper keeps up his current form.

The Exiles number one, who saved a penalty against Crewe Alexandra in the first home game of the season, produced a stunning reflex stop to keep his side in the game at Exeter City on Saturday.

Day stuck out a hand to deny Jayden Stockley a second goal for the hosts at St James Park before substitute Mark Harris grabbed a late leveller for County.

Flynn is full of admiration for his goalkeeper and he knows that there will be other admirers monitoring Day’s form.

“They could have got the second but for a great save from our goalkeeper,” said the manager.

“It was an outstanding reaction save. He didn’t know too much about it but he was in the right position to do that and he probably saved us two points.

“Joe is an outstanding goalkeeper. We’re fortunate to have him and if he keeps on putting in those performances then I’m sure he’ll go on and play in a higher division.”

Day’s current contract at Rodney Parade runs until the end of this season and Flynn brought in former Birmingham City and Barnsley stopper Nick Townsend on a two-year deal this summer.

“Joe could easily play higher,” he added. “His kicking has improved and I think he’s got another level.

“If the phone rings [with an offer] there’s nothing I can do about that.

“I’ve got quite a few good players and if they keep working hard and doing the right things then I’m sure they will play higher.”

Flynn was also quick to praise Cardiff City loanee Harris after the 19-year-old came off the bench to claim his first goal in professional football.

“He was clinical [in the end],” he joked. “He tried to mess it up three times! He ran into the defender but he took it well.

“I’m absolutely over the moon for him and it’s good that all our strikers have scored now.

“I spoke to him before the game and told him he wasn’t dropped.

“I pick the team on what I think can beat the opposition in front of us.

“You don’t always get it right but we thought Jamma [Jamille Matt] would be able to pin their two centre-backs and Josh Sheehan would be able to pick up a lot of second balls in that area.

“Josh did get in some good areas but the end quality wasn’t good enough.

“I think Mark will be very good,” he added. “He’s learning all the time, he’s got a good attitude and he can play in a few positions.

“He’s played up front, on the right and he can also play on the left as well.

“He’s got a good future ahead of him as long as he keeps improving and working hard.”

Flynn hopes to have captain Andrew Crofts available for tomorrow’s home clash with Notts County but David Pipe could miss out after picking up a knock on Saturday and Robbie Willmott remains sidelined.