Christian Jolley: Newport County release promotion winner

Christian Jolley scored the opening goal in their 2013 Conference play-off final win against Wrexham.

Newport County have reached a settlement with Christian Jolley which will see the transfer-listed striker leave the club with immediate effect.

Jolley, 26, signed from AFC Wimbledon in 2013, helped County to promotion from the Conference in 2013.

But he has made just five appearances for the League Two side this term and recently spent a two-month loan spell at Conference side Forest Green Rovers.

"He was a real catalyst in us gaining promotion," said boss Justin Edinburgh.

"I'd personally like to wish Christian all the best for the future and I speak for everyone at the club when I say that.

"It will be his [decision] to announce where he is going to go. I know he's speaking to three or four, maybe five, clubs."

Christian Jolley thanked the club and the fans for all the "support" they have given him and said winning the play-off final to win promotion to the Football League was a career highlight.

"You've helped me play some of my best football and that day at Wembley will be with me forever," he said.

"[I'm] proud to be a part of Newport's journey and long may the success continue."

A groin injury hampered Jolley last season, and Edinburgh is disappointed the player could not recapture his earlier form.

"He had a minor groin operation and never really found that level of performance we had come to expect, and that level of performance we did come to expect was breathtaking," Edinburgh added.

The 45-year-old also reiterated that he has not been approached by League One side Gillingham over their vacant manager's position.

Relegation-threatened Gillingham are looking for a new boss after sacking Peter Taylor, but Newport say there has been no contact.

"There's nothing to rule out," said Edinburgh.

"I've been connected with them. The club have had no contact, nor have I, so I don't expect there's anything I can rule out if there's nothing to rule out."

Outgoing County chief executive Dave Boddy has said he is confident Edinburgh will stay despite speculation linking him with a move away from Rodney Parade.