Michael Flynn: Struggling Newport need to get back to basics

The Exiles are on a poor run of form that has seen them win just once since December 8 yet they remain in the mix to go up.

Flynn's side are fifth with 19 fixtures to play, five points back on leaders Cambridge United with a pair of games in hand.

County have a chance to change the record on Sunday when they entertain second-placed Forest Green Rovers; a win over a promotion rival could bring the confidence flooding back.

The Exiles were flying in the first half of the campaign when they played an expansive style but have struggled as their Rodney Parade pitch has deteriorated.

However, Flynn says it's not an inability to play on the deck that has caused his side to slide, it's their basics.

Newport's Josh Sheehan battles for possession against Exeter

"Whatever the style, the fundamentals of the game don't change," he said. "You've got to keep your passing good, keep hold of possession, win the second balls, track runners, beat the first man on a corner, score in the six-yard box, stay on your feet and not get red-carded.

"Those fundamentals don't change whether we are playing beautiful Pep Guardiola football or we are playing Wimbledon-style from the 1980s when we are going back to front.

"We have played some outstanding football this season but our fundamentals were right to enable us to do that.

"We defended with our lives, we were spot-on with our passing, our crossing and movement was good.

"Our finishing wasn't outstanding but we were winning games. Those fundamentals are key in any league."

County have moved their schedule back a day to try and avoid a fifth postponement of the season.

The Forest Green fixture changed from Saturday to Sunday and the midweek trip to Walsall then shifted from Tuesday to Wednesday (kick-off 5.30pm).

The Dragons' clash with Leinster and bad weather would have left the Rovers game in severe doubt and County cannot afford fixtures to pile up in an already chocker schedule.

General view of the action between Newport County and Southend United in front of the empty stands during the Sky Bet League Two match at Rodney Parade, Newport. Picture date: Tuesday February 9, 2021.

"It gives everybody a little bit more time to get it playable and without having to play Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday," said Flynn. "It's the best thing all round for us and Forest Green.

"We've got to think of the welfare of the players. If they are playing Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday I guarantee there will be a spike of injuries at clubs.

"Teams have to be flexible in an unprecedented year. Everybody is adapting to changing circumstances."

"It's not just the physical injuries. It affects their mental state of mind as well. It's a big black hole and you don't want anybody getting sick off the back of playing too much," he continued

"You have to be much more of a manager these days. It's part groundsman, weather forecaster, psychologist, mentor, coach, father.

"There is so much more to do these days and I am relishing it because it you can add it to your box of tools then you will only become a better coach and person."

Flynn also revealed that the mental strain of playing and training during a pandemic has been a factor in his selection on occasions this season.

"I take it as a compliment because the player/players felt comfortable in telling me this. All I can do is be there to support them," he said.