NEWPORT County AFC were denied by an ex in midweek but boss Michael Flynn won't be influenced by Kevin Ellison's pleas to be let loose against his former club.

The Exiles welcome Morecambe to Rodney Parade on Saturday (kick-off 3pm) hunting three points to keep their lead in League Two.

That won't be easy against a Shrimpers side who are fresh from a 1-0 win against Barrow that lifted them to 11th and who have a mouth-watering FA Cup tie at Chelsea in January.

Fixtures against Morecambe are usually tight tussles with Ellison often the bane of County's life – he scored six goals against them, provided six assists and won three penalties.

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The 41-year-old was frozen out by Derek Adams last season and was released in the summer after nine years with the Lancashire club.

He was signed by County and has made nine appearances, with his two starts coming in the EFL Trophy.

Ellison struck a last-gasp winner against Port Vale after being given a six-minute cameo and immediately joked with Flynn in the dressing room about the damage he could do if given a proper run-out.

The ebullient forward will be desperate to prove a point against his former employers but the manager won't be swayed by appeals.

"I don't care if the pleas have got louder! I will make the decision on what I feel is best for the team against Morecambe," said Flynn, whose side had to settle for a 1-1 draw at Forest Green on Tuesday after Jamille Matt's leveller

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"Whether that's Kev starting, in the stand or coming on after 20 minutes. Whatever is right for the team is what we always try to do.

"We don't always get it right but let's be honest, we are getting the majority right at the moment."

Ellison wants to be an influence on the field but he is also playing a part off it, joining a sizeable group of experienced pros that are helping the next generation of Exiles.

"He has been brilliant. Kev is a breath of fresh air, is good for the younger boys and also for the older boys," said Flynn. "He is an amazing example of how to look after and conduct yourself over your career.

"I am really pleased with him. He is experienced and I have got a good dressing room with the likes of Padraig Amond, Mickey Demetriou, Robbie Willmott, Matty Dolan.

"They care for the younger ones and know they are always there to give advice or talk to them when needed.

"We are fortunate that we have got a really good dressing room and they all stick together and are tight. It's a strong group and I wouldn't have it any other way."