NEWPORT County AFC boss Michael Flynn has welcomed the chance to protect his players in a hectic schedule by using five subs, but is wary of upsetting the Exiles' rhythm.

The EFL voted to increase the number of replacements allowed in games from three to five for the 2020/21 season.

League Two clubs will still have 18-man matchday squads while they will still only be able to make three stoppages for replacements.

With table-topping County set for another busy period in the condensed campaign, Flynn is pleased that he has the opportunity to reduce the strain on his squad and also change things up if needed.

South Wales Argus:

"The amount of times a manger has said at half-time 'if I could take six or seven of you off I would'. That's the old cliché," he said.

"Sometimes it can work, but you also have to ensure you don't upset the rhythm. It is something for managers to think about.

"The reason we voted for it was down to players' welfare. Their well being is the most important part of this."

County welcome Port Vale to Rodney Parade this afternoon after a much-needed rest following the postponement of their trip to Grimsby because of international call-ups.

"We had an injury list creeping up and hopefully there will be a lot of good news on the injury front today," said Flynn.

South Wales Argus:

Aaron Lewis is in the mix for a County debut after returning from international duty with Wales Under-21s.

The versatile full-back has not yet featured following his deadline day loan move from Lincoln.

"He had 25 minutes the other night against Germany and did very well," said Flynn. "When he came in he had a little niggle so we had to be careful with him.

"It was a toss-up between him and Ash Baker against Leyton Orient. Aaron had a kick on the Friday and had a bit of swelling so we didn't want to risk it.

"He is showing real talent in training with us and he must be highly thought of within the Welsh squad because he is getting selected by them even though he hasn't played for us."