With Newport County AFC out of action after EFL fixtures were suspended until at least April 30 due to the coronavirus pandemic, we’re dipping into the Argus archives to relive the club’s miraculous Great Escape from relegation three years on. Follow the action day-by-day as Michael Flynn’s men battle to beat the drop against all the odds…
First published on Thursday, March 23, 2017
NEW first team management consultant Lennie Lawrence has been backed to make a big impact at Newport County AFC.
Lawrence was appointed on Tuesday to help caretaker manager Michael Flynn and assistant Wayne Hatswell as they aim to save County from relegation.
And Flynn said the former Cardiff City boss has already shown his worth before, during and after the 1-1 draw with Luton Town.
“I introduced him to the lads before the game and he spoke to them,” said the Exiles boss.
“For me he’s a sounding board, he’s someone to give advice because he’s been there, seen it and done it.
“He’s got a wealth of experience with over a thousand games and he’s someone I respect.
“He’s a tutor on the UEFA Pro Licence [course at Dragon Park in Newport] and the way he conducts himself is very professional.
“He’ll be good for the board and the fans can see that we’re doing it seriously – I want to do things the right way.
“I know what I’m good at and I know what I need help on and Lennie’s only going to help me improve that.”
Flynn added: “He won’t be there every day – there’s no need.
“I’ve got an excellent coach in Wayne Hatswell, who’s been outstanding since he came in, so there’s no need for Lennie to do that.
“I think it’s the wrong time of his career for Lennie to be in every day on the training ground.
“He’ll be at board meetings and he’ll be at games and he came in and spoke at half-time about a few things that he’d seen.
“If the players take on board what’s being said by myself, by Wayne and by Lennie then the boys can hopefully only improve.”
Steve Perryman, director of football at League Two rivals Exeter City, says Lawrence’s appointment is a boost for County.
“I know Lennie well,” said Perryman. “He knows the ins and outs of football very well and he has a lot of experience. He can only help.”
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