Jardim proud of season efforts ahead of Walsall test

Nelson Jardim says he is proud of Newport County's efforts during the course of his debut campaign at the club so far.

They have endured numerous difficult spells since Jardim was named as Graham Coughlan's successor last summer and are currently winless in six matches.

The Exiles can mathematically clinch League Two survival on Monday when they host promotion-chasing Walsall at Rodney Parade (12:30 BST).

Despite plenty of ups and downs since being named as boss, Jardim believes the tougher experiences from the 2024-25 campaign will stand Newport in good stead in the long term.

"I'm proud of what we have been doing this season," he told BBC Radio Wales after his side's 0-0 draw at MK Dons on Friday.

"Sometimes things don't go our way. Set plays have let us down in a lot of games, but I'm pleased coming here (to MK Dons), we know they've got a really good manager with a project in front of him.

"I think this league, it's tough in every game. You can't say you're going to win or lose any game. It's about what you're able to deliver on the day.

"It's about being consistent. Sometimes teams are not able to do that and we went through those spells. We were expecting to have that this season.

"Hopefully next season the club will be much better. Hopefully that stability that the club needs, having been through this experience will help the club."

Walsall appeared destined to cruise to the League Two title earlier on this year.

But the Saddlers dropped out of the top three ahead of their trip to south Wales as their winless run was extended to 11 matches following a 2-2 draw with Harrogate Town.

Following the contest with Mat Sadler's side, Newport travel to Fleetwood Town on 26 April before rounding off the season at home against relegation-threatened Tranmere Rovers a week later.