Fraser Franks set to bid farewell to Newport County tonight

The former County captain, who started his career at Chelsea, was forced to retire earlier this year due to a heart problem and 50 per cent of the proceeds from tonight’s friendly will go to him and his family.

“I want to thank both clubs and the supporters for their support tonight because it’s going to make a big difference for myself and my family,” says Franks in tonight’s matchday programme.

“I’ve been overwhelmed with the support since I announced my retirement and it’s a fantastic gesture that County and Chelsea under-23s are playing this fixture.

“The gate receipts will be split between myself and my family and also Clwb Spytty, which is important because it means the children of Newport will also benefit from this game.

“I still don’t think that I deserve something like this because I was only at the club for one season, but this will really help myself and my family and it gives me an opportunity to take some time to work out what’s next for me in my career.

“Newport have been brilliant since my retirement and they’ll always be an important part of my life and career – I’ll always be a Newport fan now,” he added.

“Chelsea have been brilliant as well and Joe Edwards was instrumental in getting this fixture arranged, so he’s another person I’d like to thank.”

Franks will be joined at the game by his wife Stacey and their new daughter Nellie, as well as other family members, before they leave Newport.

“My proudest achievement in life was having my daughter Nellie Franks and it’ll be really special bringing her to her first football game tonight,” he said.

“Most of my family will also be here and I think it will be a nice occasion to perhaps say goodbye to Newport.

“I absolutely loved my time at the club last season, myself and my wife Stacey have loved living in Wales, but now might be the time to move back closer to where our families are from.”