BOSS Graham Coughlan has challenged Newport County AFC’s squad players to grasp their opportunities after a fresh batch of injury misfortune.

The Exiles, who travel to promotion-chasing Stockport on Saturday, are currently waiting to learn the full extent of influential right wing-back Shane McLoughlin’s calf tendon injury.

The Irishman is still on crutches while central defender James Clarke limped off in last weekend’s 1-0 loss to leaders Mansfield.

Youngsters Lewis Payne and Harrison Bright shared the duties down the right against the Stags while Clarke’s injury led to a first appearance since November for Declan Drysdale.

He is working his way towards full fitness along with fellow defender Kyle Jameson and striker Offrande Zanzala after long-term injuries.

County’s season was hit hard by an autumn injury crisis and they are once again stretched with captain and centre-back Ryan Delaney out for the rest of the campaign after a knee injury suffered last month.

He is joined on the sidelines by Josh Seberry and striker Omar Bogle, who is nearing a return.

South Wales Argus: DOWN: James Clarke limped off in County's defeat to MansfieldDOWN: James Clarke limped off in County's defeat to Mansfield (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“One door closes and another opens, I have said that all season. We are not going to use injuries as an excuse,” said Coughlan.

“We have had a horrendous injury list, we thought that we were clear of it but seem to be back in the midst of it.

“In the face of aversity this club, that group of players, the supporters, we all keep digging deep, keep going and push on.

“What will be will be, if one player is injured or unavailable then it opens the door for another player.”

County were edged out by pace-setting Mansfield and now prepare to face second-placed Stockport, who are having a wobble with a four-game winless run.

The Exiles are still in the mix for the play-offs, with seventh-placed Walsall just five points away, and would give their hopes a huge boost by leaving Edgeley Park with something.

Coughlan wants a bit more quality in the final third after being kept at arm’s length by the well-drilled Stags, whose goalkeeper didn’t have to make a single save.

“I can’t question the work rate, attitude and commitment of that group of players. They go to the well and dig deep,” said the manager.

“At times we didn’t have the quality or composure where we needed it but they are a terrific group, and I say that to them all the time. Our tactics were spot-on, they were really good against a top team.”