Uncertainty Looms Over Dafydd Williams’ Future at Newport County AFC Ahead of League Two Finale
Dafydd Williams, interim head coach of Newport County AFC, has expressed uncertainty about his future with the club following Saturday’s crucial League Two fixture against Tranmere Rovers at Rodney Parade. Williams, who stepped into the role after Nelson Jardim’s departure, has had a difficult start, as he was unable to stop the Exiles’ winless streak in his first game in charge, with a 2-0 loss to Fleetwood Town.
Despite the challenging start, Williams remains focused on ending the season on a high. In his post-match comments, the interim coach stated that his main priority is to secure a positive result against Tranmere. He emphasized that, although some may view the match as inconsequential with the season coming to a close, the team’s commitment and effort would not change. “I haven’t been told anything about my future yet; the focus right now is on finishing the season well,” Williams said. “This game is not just a dead rubber for us. We have to give it everything, as we would in any other match, and ensure the fans leave with something to look forward to for pre-season.”
Despite the defeat at Fleetwood, Williams paid tribute to the 299 Newport fans who made the long journey to support the team, even as the Exiles suffered their 15th away loss of the campaign. “The support from the fans was outstanding,” he remarked. “Even when our away form hasn’t been ideal, they still turn out in numbers and make their presence felt. Their energy and encouragement at the end of the game were incredible. I can’t thank them enough, and we are determined to give them a positive performance next weekend.”
Looking ahead to the final game of the season, Newport faces a number of injury concerns. Striker Courtney Baker-Richardson is a doubt after being forced off just seven minutes into the Fleetwood match, and his replacement, Kyle Hudlin, was only able to play for an hour due to fitness issues. Additionally, Josh Martin, who was sidelined after a head injury against Walsall on Easter Monday, missed the Fleetwood game, while veteran centre-back James Clarke is also unavailable due to a groin injury sustained in the same match.
In light of these injuries, Clarke and midfielder Aaron Wildig, who has been recovering from a long-term knee injury since November, have joined the coaching staff to assist Williams for the remainder of the season. Wildig’s experience and leadership will be invaluable as the team looks to close out a difficult season on a positive note.
With the Exiles already securing their League Two status for next season, Williams has a chance to rally his team and end the season on a positive note. The focus now shifts to the final home fixture against Tranmere Rovers, where Williams and his team will look to secure a victory to give the supporters something to cheer about before the off-season. While Williams’ future remains uncertain, the club and its fans will be hoping for a strong finish to the season.