Newport County manager Christian Fuchs says he is pleased with the progress his squad has made as the Exiles return to action this weekend and he is equally excited about the impact of his new signings.
The League Two side head to Gillingham on Saturday looking to build on a strong run of performances that culminated in their first home league win of the season against Crewe in late December.
After a challenging first half of the season, Fuchs says he has been encouraged by the steady improvement his squad has shown.
“We always look at the first home win, but I’m more focused on the last seven or eight league games,” Fuchs said.
“Even at Bromley, top of the table, we didn’t win, but the players showed the right mentality. Now, we go into every game aiming to win, and that makes me really happy.”
The squad has had a 17-day break due to weather and FA Cup postponements, which Fuchs used to focus on team cohesion. “We took time for team bonding, some light training, and even a small spa retreat — it was good for everyone to reconnect and refresh,” he said.
Newport have strengthened their squad during the January transfer window, giving Fuchs options across all areas of the pitch.
James Crole has joined permanently from Cymru Premier side Penybont, where he scored 27 goals last season.
The 21-year-old striker has impressed in training with his finishing and physicality.
“He’s exactly the type of player we needed — someone who can get into the box, hold up the ball, and score goals,” Fuchs said.
The Exiles have also added Tanatswa Nyakuhwa, a Wales U21 winger on loan from Cardiff City, who brings pace and creativity on the flank.
Ryan Delaney returns to Newport from Swindon Town, bolstering central defence, while Harrison Biggins joins on loan from Shrewsbury Town, adding energy and experience in midfield.
“I’ve got decisions to make, but they are positive ones,” Fuchs said. “The squad has real depth now, and these players raise the quality of the team. They fit perfectly into the way we want to play.”
Saturday’s clash with 16th-placed Gillingham represents a chance for Newport to continue their upward trajectory.
Historically, the Exiles have had success against the Kent side, including a recent FA Cup penalty shoot-out victory.
A positive result could lift Newport off the foot of the League Two table and build momentum for the rest of the season.
Fuchs is optimistic about the future. “Every game is an opportunity to improve and keep pushing forward. Seeing this group develop and get better each week is what excites me the most,” he said.
With a stronger, deeper squad and renewed confidence, Newport County will be looking to maintain their progress and turn recent improvements into consistent results as the second half of the season gets underway.
