NEWPORT County are bracing themselves for yet another blow to their promotion bid this week with the news that FA Cup heroes Stevenage Borough are in talks with midfielder Jamie Collins.

Collins, very much a Dean Holdsworth signing and still based in his native London, is on non-contract terms with the Exiles who had hoped to convince their vice-captain to sign a new deal.

That’s still the case, particularly as Aldershot are powerless to sign the player due to an amnesty agreement between the two clubs as part of the compensation package for Holdsworth.

However, League Two Stevenage appear in prime position to land the midfielder, available on a free and boss Harris admits he can now do nothing but hope his man stays.

“That’s the reality of the situation, I’ve looked Jamie in the eyes and told him we all would love him to stay here and help finish the job he’s started,” he said.

“We’ve got to have players who want to be here and hopefully Jamie is in that category. If he isn’t, then there is little we can do.”

Harris has endured a tough start to his spell as caretaker manager with Newport, having lost both games since taking charge, the Exiles with just one draw and five losses in their last six contests.

However, positive news did arrive yesterday with County the victors in a behind closed doors friendly with Bristol Rovers, Kerry Morgan and triallist Toby Davies on the scoresheet in a 2-0 win.

The Exiles gave 90 minutes to the likes of Morgan, goalkeeper Glyn Garner and player/coach Wayne Hatswell, though it was a returning player who really caught the eye, as Harris explained.

“Scotty Rogers played for an hour and he did really well, he looked sharp and hungry and his return is a big boost to us at a good time,” he said.

Harris continues to look to add to his squad with a week to go before the transfer window shuts. The Argus understands he’s hopeful of making additions across the field, with defensive, midfield and attacking reinforcements being sought.

“Everyone is working extremely hard on that front, we want to freshen things up and hopefully our hard work will pay off,” he said.

“We think we are closing in on some new faces and I am expecting another very busy week.”