Newport County poised to unveil two key signings

Newport County director of football Tim Harris says the Welsh club are close to signing two new players as they prepare for life in League Two next season.

They have already re-signed plus 11 other squad members.

But Harris says the expected new faces will strengthen Newport in key areas.

"It's all very 'cloak and dagger'... but we're hoping we're going to announce two really good signings early next week," Harris said.

"I'm sure that the fans will be really pleased with the signings that we're making.

"We've got a majority of the squad from last year that have performed admirably and were really comfortable that they can take the step up to the Football League.

"Many of them have Football League experience which has enabled us to get to where we are today, so I don't think there is going to be a great influx of players.

"It's just one or two really key personnel that's going to enable us to kick on as a football club."

Meanwhile, County have announced that they will play Aston Villa as part of their pre-season schedule and will host the Premier League side at Rodney Parade on 28 July.

"It's a great opportunity for Justin and the lads to play a Premiership club, and someone of the stature of Aston Villa at Rodney Parade on a nice, new pitch should be a great day on Sunday 28th," Harris added.

Newport County pre-season fixtures:

Wednesday 10 July: Swindon Supermarine Away - Kick Off 19:30 BST

Saturday 13 July: Carl Zeiss Jena Away - Kick Off 18:30 BST

Tuesday 16 July: Taunton Town Away - Kick Off 19:30 BST

Saturday 20 July: Havant & Waterlooville Away - Kick Off 15:00 BST

Tuesday 23 July: Reading X1 Venue to be confirmed - Kick Off 19:30 BST

Thursday 25 July: Newport County X1 v Pegasus Juniors Away - Kick Off 19:30 BST

Sunday 28 July; Aston Villa Home - Kick Off 15:00 BST