AARON Lewis believes it’s a sign of Newport County AFC’s strength in depth that he is in a three-way tussle for a start down the left rather than a duel.

The Exiles head to second-placed Stevenage in League Two tonight aiming to get back to winning ways after a four-game streak was ended by Grimsby Town.

Lewis has been slotting in at left-back after getting the nod ahead of namesake Adam, who is on loan from Liverpool, and Will Evans, who started the season as wing-back after joining from Bala as a forward.

Aaron Lewis previously battled for starts with Ryan Haynes but his summer departure doesn’t mean the Swansea academy graduate can take his place for granted.

“We've got a really strong squad and multiple people in every position that are capable of winning games for us,” said the 24-year-old.

“We have that competition and it means everyone is at it every day. If you come off a high standard for a day in training then you might not play at the weekend.

“It keeps everyone checking over their shoulder, nobody has their place in the team guaranteed.”

South Wales Argus: Aaron Lewis in action for Newport CountyAaron Lewis in action for Newport County (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

Lewis missed out on the opening day draw at Sutton after manager James Rowberry opted for the physicality of Evans against their uncompromising hosts.

“You want to start every game but if the gaffer pulls you over and gives the reason as being because of another player’s attribute then as long as it makes the team better, everyone is happy,” he said.

Lewis is extremely comfortable on the ball and a sign of his ability with both feet is that you must check if he has a preference.

For the record, he is right-footed and profited from growing up as a central midfielder who was keen to open up both sides of the field.

Lewis moved back to become a full-back and a reference to Denis Irwin, the right-footed former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland defender, isn’t wasted on him despite his age and being an Arsenal fan.

“I am comfortable off either side so I happy with whatever gets me in the team and gets the team three points,” he said.

“Over the last couple of seasons I’ve mostly been at left-back but I am more than comfortable either side.

“I'm right-footed and you can see that sometimes allows me to roll inside and link up but there are some things that I am more comfortable at on my left because of habits and it being second nature now.”

Lewis will hope to cut in with great effect at Stevenage.