NEWPORT County AFC’s League Two trip to Port Vale has been postponed because of a frozen pitch.

The Exiles were hoping to bounce back from their shock 1-0 home defeat to Southend United on Tuesday evening.

However, Vale made an early call given the condition of the pitch and the weather forecast.

“With freezing temperatures occurring across Staffordshire, an early pitch inspection took place at 10:30am today to assess the playing surface suitability ahead of this weekend’s clash with the Exiles and it has been deemed unsuitable,” read a statement.

“With temperatures expected to drop further tomorrow, an early decision was made to postpone the match.”

The decision means that wing-back Liam Shephard will now be suspended for Tuesday’s home fixture against Exeter City while Scot Bennett will miss that clash and the weekend encounter with Forest Green Rovers.

The postponement - County's fourth of the season - adds to the hectic schedule with Michael Flynn's side having 20 games to fit in the 12 weeks before the May 8 trip to Southend.