Newport need transfers to strengthen spine - Hughes

Newport County manager David Hughes was coach at Manchester United Under-21s

Newport County manager David Hughes intends to strengthen the spine of his team in the final days of the transfer window.

The Exiles have made a steady start to League Two after being tipped by many to struggle and intend to cause an upset on Saturday when hosting much-fancied and unbeaten Milton Keynes Dons (12.30 BST).

Hughes, who was appointed in May, has worked closely with owner Huw Jenkins to bring in nine players so far.

However, there are still deals to be done before the transfer window closes at 17:00 BST on 1 September.

Central midfield - especially after injuries to Kai Whitmore and Keenan Patten - and striker appear to be the leading departments for improvement.

"We are looking for players to strengthen in a couple of key areas," said Hughes. "We are looking for a few to help strengthen the spine and core of the team.

"That's really challenging and difficult, it's hard sometimes to get individuals to commit. They might have three or four opportunities and possible outcomes.

"Trying to ensure somebody can commit is often a challenge but I can assure supporters that we are actively trying to strengthen and add some support to what we already have."

Goalkeepers Nik Tzanev and Jordan Wright, defenders Lee Jenkins and Liam Shephard, midfielder Matthew Smith and striker Ged Garner have joined on permanent deals.

Manchester United right-back Habeeb Ogunneye, Swansea midfielder Ben Lloyd and Cardiff forward Michael Reindorf have arrived on loan.

"We have daily discussions on what profile we need," said Hughes. "We are really clear with what type of individual we need to come in, and it's important there is clarity with that.

"We are trying to be patient but are also aware that we want to get some results out of the work that is going on."

County will not have any fresh faces in the squad for the home fixture against the Dons, who have backed boss Paul Warne heavily in the transfer market this summer.

MK have taken eight points from four league games but were hammered 6-3 when the sides met in Newport last December.

"We are going to meet the challenge head on," said Hughes. "We will put our shoulders back, step forward and ensure we give a really good account of ourselves to upset what everybody else anticipates will happen."