GRAHAM Coughlan’s no-nonsense approach will help Newport County AFC climb away from a League Two relegation scrap, believes defender Declan Drysdale.

The Exiles head to Crewe tonight (kick-off 7.45pm) hunting more points in the reign of the new manager, who was appointed in mid-October.

County have claimed eight from five games under Coughlan thanks to two wins, two draws and a solitary defeat.

They have kept three clean sheets and the 18th-placed Exiles, who are five clear of the drop zone, hope that mean streak will help them avoid a nervy 2023.

Former Bristol Rovers and Mansfield boss Coughlan has got the side well-drilled with clarity over their roles and responsibilities.

“It’s black and white with him,” said Drysdale. “You know what he wants and you have to give him that or you won’t be involved.

“That is translating on the pitch, we are running through brick walls and wearing our hearts on our sleeves for the club.”

Drysdale and Priestley Farquharson have made strides in recent weeks when featuring in a back three alongside dependable stalwart Mickey Demetriou.

The summer signing from Coventry City is enjoying working under Coughlan, who became a Plymouth legend thanks to his performances at the heart of the Pilgrims’ defence as a player.

South Wales Argus: Newport County defender Declan DrysdaleNewport County defender Declan Drysdale (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“It’s brilliant for me. Every single day I am learning from him and taking little bits of information,” said Drysdale.

“It’s not just from the gaffer, ‘OB’ [coach Mark O’Brien] was a centre-back so I am trying to bee a sponge and take everything in to improve.

“I’ve had a run in the side and the gaffer just wants the basics from me but there is a lot to improve on and there is a more to come from me. When you get a run of games it’s your jersey and you have to keep it.”

County head to Gresty Road after a last-gasp FA Cup defeat to Derby that leaves them to concentrate on the league.

They pushed the third-tier Rams all the way and Drysdale knows they must repeat that effort.

“The games come thick and fast, which can only be a good thing for us to keep form and momentum,” he said.

“Performances have been there and hopefully the results will come, we’ve just got to iron out some creases.

“The gaffer said that if we put that Derby performance together in the bread and butter of the league then there is no reason why we can’t start climbing the table and really put a marker down.

“It’s a busy schedule over Christmas and we need to make the most of that.”