NEWPORT County AFC boss Nelson Jardim has challenged his players to all ‘do a little bit more’ to fill the void left by talisman captain Aaron Wildig at Barrow.
The midfielder will sit out the League Two trip to Holker Street after suffering a concussion in last week’s 4-0 hammering at Swindon.
Wildig will continue to be monitored by the medical staff with a view to returning against Crewe at Rodney Parade a week on Saturday.
The 32-year-old, who is co-captain with injured central defender James Clarke, has started the season impressively and is currently top scorer with three goals, while he also provides leadership for an inexperienced squad.
“We will always miss a player like him, he has been great and has been with us every day, he’s just not going to be on the grass,” said head coach Jardim.
“We will miss what he gives to everyone, how he pushes them and leads by example, but if everyone does a little bit more then we will be fine.”
Bryn Morris is likely to captain the side in Cumbria in Wildig’s absence with Jardim having to choose who slots into midfield alongside him.
The head coach also has to decide what formation he goes with against a Barrow side who have started the season impressively.
The Bluebirds have won four and drawn one of their opening six games and look likely to be challengers at the top end of the table.
Holker Street is a tough test for any team and the encounter will reveal plenty about this County group as they attempt to show more resolve after a 4-1 defeat to impressive Port Vale and the 4-0 embarrassment at Swindon.
“It’s not only the long travel but their quality, they have started very well and are a competitive team,” said Jardim.
“They do play some good football and their wingers are very good, if you are not switched on then they can hurt you. They are also good on set plays, so it will be a tough test.
“I have heard so many things about the stadium and the difficulties you can face there with the wind and other things that you have to consider.
“I am confident that our boys will give a good account of themselves, we always expect a good performance and to go there and compete.
“We have shown at the beginning of the season that it’s a game that can go right for us.”
Centre-back Clarke, midfielder Kai Whitmore and winger Michael Spellman are getting close to returns from injury but Barrow is too soon.
Kyle Jameson will start at the heart of the defence after serving a one-match suspension in Swindon but Ciaran Brennan, who returned for Tuesday’s EFL Trophy win against West Ham Under-21s, remains banned in League Two and sits out Barrow and Crewe.
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