Newport County hit by injuries for FA Cup clash with Derby

The Exiles are stretched for the televised round two encounter against the Rams at Rodney Parade on Sunday afternoon (kick-off 3.15pm).

Central defender Clarke was a key figure at the start of the Graham Coughlan era but has missed the last four games after having his knee cleaned up, with another couple of weeks out likely.

The 33-year-old was joined on the sidelines by in-form centre-back Farquharson and right-back Norman for the midweek trip to MK Dons in the EFL Trophy.

They have niggles and are working their way back to fitness.

Left wing-back Adam Lewis started in Buckinghamshire but was forced off in the second half with a hamstring injury.

The defensive quartet have not trained and are poised to miss the encounter with League One Derby in Newport.

“We are not in a great position at the moment but one man's misfortune is another man's gain,” said Coughlan.

“Somebody else will get a chance to go in and play, take the jersey and try and make it their own. It could be a fortunate moment for one or two others who will want a run in the team.

“Every club has injuries, it's unfortunate but part and parcel of football.”

Club captain Matty Dolan slotted in at the heart of the defence alongside Mickey Demetriou and Declan Drysdale in the absence of Clarke and Farquharson.

The loss of Norman and Lewis could give a chance to stalwart Robbie Willmott or youngster Harrison Bright, while forward Will Evans is another option after starting the season as a left wing-back.

Midfielder Aaron Wildig remains on the comeback trail from a back strain and is set to return to full training in the coming week while striker Offrande Zanzala, who came through the ranks at Derby, is sidelined by a hamstring injury.

The injuries mean there could be opportunities for academy prospects in the matchday squad against the Rams as County can name a nine-man bench in the FA Cup.