Newport County Receives Fitness Boost Ahead of FA Cup Clash with Walsall
Newport County has gained a fitness advantage as they prepare for Saturday’s FA Cup match against Walsall, with defender Matty Jacob returning to training.
The 25-year-old, currently on loan from Hull City, had a strong start to the season, starting every League Two match until he faced a hamstring injury during the game against York.
County manager Hayden Mullins commented on Jacob’s progress: “Matty Jacobs has been back training with us this week which has been really good. Whether this weekend is a little bit too early for him I’m not too sure.”
Mullins expressed more confidence regarding forward Michael Adu-Poku, who was substituted during the match against Chesterfield as a precautionary measure. Furthermore, Aaron Lewis is available after playing 45 minutes in Tuesday’s EFL trophy defeat to Crystal Palace U21s, but James Crole has encountered another injury setback.
“He (Crole) came through the game, but had a little bit of a scare on his other ankle, so he’s sort of been icing it,” added Mullins.
Injuries continue to affect the squad, as Fulham loanee Matt Dibley-Dias and Cardiff loanee Nyakuhwa have returned to their respective parent clubs for rehabilitation. Mullins expressed hope of having them back before Christmas, stating, “We hope we get them back in a matter of weeks, rather than months with all being well, and they don’t get any setbacks.”
