INJURED defender Mickey Demetriou says he has full faith in his Newport County AFC teammates to cope without him until he returns, hopefully at the end of November.

Demetriou was ruled out for up to 14 weeks after suffering a broken fibula in the 1-0 win over Plymouth Argyle on August 17.

The 29-year old has had a plate fitted to help fix the break and is targeting a return to action towards the end of November.

“No one likes getting injured,” Demetriou admitted.

“No one likes missing games and I’m not used to it at this football club. The stats speak for themselves; I’ve only missed out on one game in my two and a half years here and that was when I fractured my cheekbone [against Wrexham last season].

“Now, 120 or 130 games later, I’ve got a little spell on the sidelines but I can’t get too down about it.

“Yes, I’ll have a few down days but the lads and the gaffer will help keep the spirits up and I’ll come back stronger.

South Wales Argus:

“I’ve got full faith in the squad that they will cope without me,” he added.

“We’ve got some really good players and I’ll enjoy watching them play well until I can get myself back out there.

“Until I’m back, the boys can take it on themselves and I’ll be fighting in training to get myself back to fitness.”

Demetriou also thanked the Exiles fans for their support since his injury.

"Of course there will be tough days, having to watch the boys from the sidelines and not being able to play and help them on the pitch,” he said.

“But the players, management and supporters will always pick me up.

“It was humbling to see the support and appreciation I received while making my way around the pitch at the recent games with Crewe and West Ham.

“I can only thank the supporters once again for their help and support as I fight to come back stronger from this injury.

“I’m already nearly two weeks into my recovery and I’ve started doing a few sessions in the gym as well, which has made the time go quicker. I’m just looking forward to getting back out on the pitch with the lads.”