RYAN Haynes has followed Scot Bennett and Michael Flynn to Cheltenham Town as the Newport County AFC reunion gathers pace at Whaddon Road.

Former Exiles boss Flynn took charge of the Robins earlier this month and has wasted no time in recruiting some trusted troops.

Bennett signed for Cheltenham on Friday, having reluctantly ended his nine-year stay at Rodney Parade after failing to agree terms on a new contract this summer.

And Haynes, who starred at left-back and left wing-back under Flynn and alongside Bennett at County between 2019 and 2022, has followed suit following his departure from Northampton Town.

The 28-year-old becomes the club's third new signing of the summer following Bennett and Harry Pell, with former County goalkeeper Joe Day set to join them.

And Haynes is relishing the prospect of teaming up again with Flynn and Bennett.

“The manager is a good guy and he’s one of the reasons why I’ve signed,” said Haynes.

“I really enjoyed my time at Newport with him, so I’m looking forward to working with him again and the new staff here.

“Benno is a good guy as well,” he added. “I really liked playing alongside him when I was at Newport. He’s a great signing and he’ll do really well for the team.”

Beginning his career with Coventry City, Haynes turned out for the Sky Blues in both Leagues One and Two, as well as playing a big part in their 2016-2017 EFL Trophy win.

He helped Flynn’s Exiles reach the 2021 League Two play-off final before joining his hometown club Northampton.

The wing-back played on 28 occasions as the Cobblers won promotion back to League One in the 2022-2023 season and he believes Flynn can make Cheltenham challengers next season.

“I’m delighted to get it done,” Haynes said. “When I first heard about the move it was one I really wanted to pursue and now I’m looking forward to getting going.

“I really enjoyed my time at Northampton but sometimes you have to move on. I’m here now and I’m looking forward to pre-season.

“The first two weeks aren’t nice – there’s a lot of running – but it gets you prepared for what’s to come. We’ll be a fit squad.

“The message is very clear,” he added. “We’d like to be challenging at the top end of the table and that’s why I’m here.

“I’m sure it’ll be a rollercoaster, as always, but hopefully with a positive outcome at the end of it.”