NEWPORT County AFC goalkeeper Nick Townsend is back in the Antigua and Barbuda squad after pausing his international career to keep his starting spot at the Exiles.

The 29-year-old will feature in the upcoming Concacaf Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Antigua and Barbuda, 142nd in FIFA's world rankings, host Bermuda on June 5 and then travel to face the Cayman Islands three days later.

It will be a return to international football for Townsend, who opted to sit out the November games against Puerto Rico and Guyana in the Concacaf Nations League.

The West Midlander stayed with the Exiles to start against Bristol Rovers in the EFL Trophy and versus Mansfield and Stockport in League Two.

Townsend had a fine campaign to establish himself as first choice, making 52 appearances in all competitions.

He will have a new rival for the starting spot next season after the departure of experienced stopper Jonny Maxted after one season and six outings for County.

Joe Day has also been released after spending the season on loan, initially with Woking and then helping Yeovil to the National League South title.