Newport upgrade Jardim to head coach

Nelson Jardim spent four years at Swansea City over two spells in west Wales

Former Swansea City coach Nelson Jardim will lead Newport County into the new League Two season.

Portuguese-born Jardim has been confirmed as the club's head coach, having initially joined the Exiles as a “lead coach” earlier this month.

When Jardim originally joined the coaching staff, Newport said they would "continue its search for a new head coach" following the departure of former boss Graham Coughlan in June.

But Newport chairman Huw Jenkins has now told the club website: “One or two matters needed to be discussed and agreed during the last few weeks before this announcement could be confirmed.

“Leaving his young family in Madeira (Portugal) to move to Newport and take up this challenge was a big decision for him to make. The club also needed written confirmation of Nelson’s settled status in the UK, which we have now received.”

Jardim has already taken charge of pre-season preparations at the League Two club and a 4-1 victory in the traditonal opening friendly at local side Undy.

“Nelson has made a big impact at Newport County over recent weeks, not only with the staff and players, but he has also been instrumental in helping to bring a strong, positive feel around the club," added Jenkins.

“Hopefully today’s update will allow everyone connected to the club from the staff, players and supporters to fully focus on the exciting new season ahead.’’

Former Swansea chairman Jenkins knows Jardim well from his time in west Wales. Jardim initially joined the Swans as a coach in 2009 under manager Paulo Sousa, before following the former Champions League winner to Leicester City a year later.

Jardim was assistant manager at LigaPro side Nacional before heading back to Swansea in 2017 as a lead Academy coach. He later served as a first-team coach under Francesco Guidolin, Paul Clement and Carlos Carvahal.

Following his departure from the Swans in 2020, Jardim was part of Aitor Karanka's coaching set-up at Birmingham City and then returned home to Portugal to manage Maritimo B.

At Newport, Jardim’s backroom team includes assistant head coach Dafydd Williams, goalkeeping coach Jim Hollman, head of performance Scott Wickens (strength and conditioning) and head analyst Connor McGaharan. Club legends David Pipe and Mark O’Brien will also remain part of the first team set-up.

Newport have also appointed Triston Jenkins as a new head physiotherapist. He will oversee the club’s medical department following extensive experience in the NHS, Swansea City Academy, Haverfordwest County and the Welsh Rugby Union.

Newport continue their pre-season build-up with a Tuesday night friendly at Pontypridd United.