NEWPORT County AFC have signed attacking midfielder Josh Edwards following his release by his boyhood club Swansea City, writes Andrew Penman.

The 18-year-old joins County on a free transfer after departing Swansea in the summer and will join up with the Exiles development side, subject to EFL approval.

Edwards is a Wales under-19 international and has captained Swansea in the under-18 Premier League.

County manager, James Rowberry, said: “I’m so pleased to welcome Josh to the club.

“He’s a promising young talent which further outlines what we’re trying to do here, by building both for right now and with an eye to the future. He’ll fit into our development squad with immediate effect. I know you’ll give him a warm welcome!”

The teenager was with the Swans from the age of eight and he made history back in 2019 when he became the first 15-year-old to appear for Swansea under-23s.

Speaking to Swansea’s club website at the time, he said: “It was great to get the opportunity to play; I loved every minute of it.

“It meant everything to me. I want to be doing it for my family, friends and everyone who is supporting me.

“I was very nervous at first, but I eased my way into it and the players were giving me constant support throughout.

“My game is mainly about seeing passes and playing balls in behind defences. So, when I get the chance to play up an age group, I must stick to that and show myself in the best way.

“Playing my own game helped me achieve what I did so no matter what age group I play at, I’m not going to change it.

“I look up to players like Kevin De Bruyne a lot,” he added. “His game is obviously different to mine, but I admire the way he plays and the passes he sees. I try to implement that into my own game.

“It’s similar in terms of watching Bernardo Silva and the ability he has to work his way out of tight spaces.”

County are back in action on Saturday when they host Barrow at Rodney Parade (kick-off 3pm).