NEWPORT County AFC manager Michael Flynn has spoken of his respect and admiration for his Swansea counterpart ahead of the sides' clash in the Carabao Cup.

Speaking at a virtual press conference, Flynn praised the job being done at the Liberty Stadium by Steve Cooper.

"Steve is a top lad," he said.

"I’ve known him a long time.

"He’s a very good coach and now he’s gone and excelled as a manager.

"The job he did last season I thought was exceptional.

"They had a lot of big players leave, they had to trim costs left right and centre. For them to get to the playoffs was a fantastic achievement.

"I know people get carried away and say “they were a Premier League team, they should be aiming for that”, but there’s been a big turnaround at that club."

Asked how he thought the game would pan out, with the potential for the Swans to rest a few key players, Flynn was realistic.

"They’ve got a lot of good players," he said.

"It’s going to be difficult but, as always, I’m sure we will give them a game.

"It’s a free hit for us, we’re looking to make it as uncomfortable as possible for them.

"I’ve not decided on the team yet. I need to look at who will need games, who hasn’t played and who has played more minutes.

"We have a rough idea."

Matches for the foreseeable future will be played in next-to empty stadiums, with fans absent due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Flynn said that his players must have to get used to this as the new normal for the time being.

"The players will have to get used to that for the next six to eight weeks," he said.

"There might not be anybody in the stands, but there’s going to be a lot of people watching them.

"It’s a good chance for them."

This week has already seen three changes at Rodney Parade, with Daniel Leadbitter moving on a season-long loan to Yeovil town and Scott Twine coming the other way from Swindon Town.

The club have also announced the signing of Liam Shepherd on a one-year deal.

"I’m getting there," said Flynn.

"Hopefully looking to add a few more over the next few days. I can manage to move a few on to make room for that.

"I felt a bit like Harry Redknapp, wheelin’ and dealin’ this transfer window because it has been difficult. Nobody knows how long it’s going to keep going on for."

One player who could be returning to Rodney Parade, albeit in the opposing dressing room, is recent Wales debutant Ben Cabango.

Flynn worked with Cabango during his time as academy manager at County.

"I’m immensely proud of Ben, he’s a great kid," he said.

"He has kicked on he looks like a man now. I know he’s doing really well."