Hudlin 'open' to longer Newport stay

Newport County head coach Nelson Jardim would be keen for Kyle Hudlin to extend his current loan with the League Two club.

And the in-form giant Huddersfield Town striker would be “open” to the idea of remaining with the Exiles for the rest of the season.

The 6’9” forward joined on loan from League One Huddersfield in August, following an injury to Hamza Kargbo, who is still working his way back to fitness.

But Jardim is impressed by what he has seen of Hudlin.

“I have spoken about the character and everything, he is definitely one of the players we are lucky to have around and he is one of them I would like to keep," he said.

“If that was only my decision I would definitely want him and he has proven why.”

Hudlin, one of the tallest footballers in the world, has hit three goals in his last five Newport appearances including a well taken strike in Tuesday's 2-0 win at Gillingham.

Just over a year ago, the former student had a contract extension with Huddersfield to keep him with the Yorkshire club until 2026.

But if the Exiles were to push for a loan deal beyond January, they player would give it serious consideration.

"I am very open to it," said Hudlin.

“It’s all about analysing what pops up in January, what Huddersfield want and obviously what works for both parties. But so far I am really enjoying my football, I really like the staff and the players.

“It’s just about keeping my head down seeing how far I can take it up until the deadline and then we will re-evaluate from there.”

During the summer, Newport chairman Huw Jenkins instigated an overhaul of the Exiles' playing staff and brought in 17 players. All bar one, like Hudlin, aged 24 or under.

A clutch of loan players were included in that number by Jenkins, who will have the final say on whether to push for a longer loan stay for the former Solihull Moors forward.

Jardim admitted: “To be fair I don’t do my days thinking about what type of agreements they have.

“I go through days trying to find ways to improve players and making them feel they are well treated, getting what they need and the reasons why they came here.

“I am sure they are happy, that is the feedback I am having not only from these players but also from the clubs.”