Newport County

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New manager Christian Fuchs praised the efforts of his Newport County players but acknowledged that mistakes proved costly in the 3-0 loss at Oldham Athletic.

Fuchs was confirmed as Dave Hughes' successor on Thursday and had only taken one training session before his first game in charge.

County remain bottom of League Two after two goals from Josh Hawkes and another from former player Joe Quigley gave Oldham a 3-0 win.

"The boys left it all out there," former Austria and Leicester City defender Fuchs said.

"They tried hard - they never stopped, even though when we went down, they really tried to give their best.

"What let us down is exactly what happened earlier this season already.

"In the games before, at the decisive moments, we were not tidy enough, we didn't have the organisation behind the ball that is needed to prevent those goals.

"I felt, honestly, by the end of the first half, when Oldham actually put us under a lot of pressure, that the boys really defended well, really were disciplined, tried the hardest to keep the ball out of the box, fought for every inch.

"Unfortunately, then a couple of individual mistakes, not disciplined enough behind the ball, then cost us.

"You can tell they have the heart at the right place. They care about the club, they care about their performance,

"But now it's also, yes, we can put in all the effort that we want, but we need to put points on the board.

"Unfortunately, again, some individual mistakes, second balls which we addressed, cost us and that hurts even more."

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Captain James Clarke says the Newport County squad are excited to be "learning from the best" after the appointment of Christian Fuchs as the club's new manager.

Fuchs, who won the Premier League and FA Cup during his time with Leicester City, replaces David Hughes, who was sacked following the club's 1-0 defeat against Shrewsbury.

The role is Fuchs' first senior management position, with the Austrian having previously only worked as assistant coach for Charlotte FC in America's MLS.

Fuchs faces the daunting task of keeping Newport in the EFL, with the club four points from safety after three wins from 16 League Two games this season.

But Clarke says Fuchs' lack of experience is not a concern.

"You look at his pedigree and background, he clearly knows football," said Clarke.

"We're excited with the appointment, it's an exciting one."

Despite being the oldest player in the squad, Clarke is expecting to learn under Fuchs' guidance.

"I'm 36 now, but you never stop learning in football, and there is nothing really better than learning from the best," he added.

"He's somebody who's won the Premier League and played international football.

"I can't wait to meet him and see development on the training pitch, see what I can learn from him and what the younger players can develop into."

Fuchs, who won 78 caps for Austria, will begin his reign with a trip to Oldham Athletic on Saturday before his first Newport home game comes against Barrow seven days later.

Oldham have conceded the fewest goals in League Two so far this campaign, but have not won at Boundary Park in four games.

"If we win the next two we could be out of the relegation zone," said Clarke.

"I don't think you can expect things to change overnight, but there's plenty of games left in the season to turn it around.

"He [Fuchs] is going to implement his style and hopefully we pick that up quickly."

Luke Hemmings
BBC Sport Wales

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New manager Christian Fuchs has some serious issues to address to turn Newport County's season around.

Former Austria and Leicester City defender Fuchs, 39, has replaced David Hughes, who was sacked having overseen just four wins in 22 matches across all competitions.

The final straw was the a 1-0 defeat away at relegation rivals Shrewsbury Town, a result that means the Exiles are four points adrift of safety at the bottom of League Two.

Appointed in the summer of 2025, Hughes inherited a squad in transition, with experienced figures such as Shane McLoughlin, Nick Townsend, and Aaron Wildig departing on free transfers.

The club's recruitment focused heavily on youth, bringing in promising loanees such as Sammy Braybrooke and Nathan Opoku from Leicester's Under-21s, but the lack of League Two know-how quickly became apparent.

In one early-season fixture against MK Dons, every Newport outfield player was younger than their opposite number, illustrating the squad's inexperience.

Fuchs now faces the task of steering this youthful side to safety.

On the pitch, the struggles were clear to see, a disjointed side with a depleting confidence, conceding "avoidable" goals and ranking third worst for expected goals against.

The attacking numbers did not offer promise either, languishing near the bottom for shots on target and overall goal threat, despite showing creativity in moments through Kai Whitmore, top goal scorer and assister, and ranking fifth for through-balls.

The statistics are worrying: second-most goals conceded per match, just two clean sheets, most penalties given away, and the highest foul count in the division.

Even more frustrating for fans, Newport remain winless at home in the league this season, a statistic that has only deepened discontent and urgency for change.

Despite these struggles, there have been flashes of positivity, most notably an impressive win away over Harrogate Town and a morale-boosting victory against Cardiff City in the EFL Trophy.

But those moments were not enough to mask the broader issues, and a defeat to Exeter City in the same competition followed by the loss to Shrewsbury sealed Hughes' fate.

Injuries and fatigue have exposed the squad's lack of depth, forcing frequent changes and reliance on untested players, while tactical inconsistency - switching to five defenders and two attackers - appears to have left the team without a clear identity.

Fuchs will need to bring structure and stability, but he also inherits a few bright sparks to build around.

New signing Braybrooke has impressed in midfield, ranking top among Newport players for average ratings, while Whitmore has emerged as the club's top scorer, top assister, and one of their most consistent performers.

Hughes praised Whitmore's impact before his departure, saying: "Kai's a great lad. He has got some important goals.

"He has continued to progress his game as he continues his own journey. He's got an infectious enthusiasm and personality around the players."

Whitmore's development offers hope for the future and - if Fuchs is to succeed - it is clear he must play to the strengths of his young midfielder and build a system that allows County's talent to flourish.

Despite Hughes' time in charge being turbulent and his exit feeling inevitable, there was a sense of respect and appreciation from within the dressing room for the departing boss.

Club captain James Clarke reflected on the moment Hughes told the players he would be leaving, saying: "To be fair, he came across very classy in the changing room after obviously what just happened.

"He said that we are a bunch of honest lads, we worked hard. He was brilliant, to be fair. I didn't expect him to speak as well as he did and give as much positivity to us after having some bad news."

Clarke added: "He's been nothing but class for us and, you know, he's protected the players when we probably haven't performed for him as well.

"So, he's been brilliant. Unfortunately it hasn't worked out, but I can't speak any higher of him really."

Looking ahead, Clarke also expressed optimism about the new appointment: "We're quite excited with the appointment, you know. It's an exciting one.

"I think the lads can all get behind it."

Whether that renewed optimism and energy will be enough to steer Newport away from relegation remains to be seen, but the task ahead is daunting for Fuchs, who will be hoping to steady the ship and pick up vital points as his side travel to Oldham Athletic on Saturday, 22 November (15:00 GMT).

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Newport County are on the hunt for a new manager once again after the club sacked David Hughes.

County are rooted to the foot of the League Two table after just three wins in 16 league games this season.

Hughes' sacking followed a 1-0 defeat away at Shrewsbury on Saturday, but who do you want to see named as his successor?

Here is what you said.

Andrew: "Someone who has a proven track record in keeping a side up. Neil Warnock, Mark Hughes, even if it's just a short term appointment, the top priority is to keep the club in the football league."

Phil: "We need an experienced manager to try and save us."

Ade: "David Hughes has my upmost respect for trying to get a team going that was assembled by someone else. Who should come in? Not Mike Flynn, but someone who has a magic wand!"

Terry: "Huw Jenkins will have to dig deep into his pockets if the club is to get in someone such as Darren Ferguson. Mike Flynn has been sacked by Walsall, Swindon and Cheltenham since he left in 2021, so it would be a big mistake if he was brought back."

Mike: "Unfortunately whoever the manager is it's the recruitment that has been the problem. Really concerned, I feel if we go down to the National League it will be the end."

Ian: "I would like to see Michael Fynn back and try to reintroduce confidence back into the side."

Kevin: "Even Jurgen Klopp would have a job to get County out of this mess!"

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The Chairman of the Newport County Supporters Association Trust says the sacking of David Hughes is "disappointing" despite it being a needed change.

Newport's 1-0 defeat away at Shrewsbury on Saturday proved to be the final straw for Hughes, who won just three of his 16 League Two games in charge of the club.

As a result, County sit bottom of the table and four points adrift of safety, having picked up just 11 points this campaign.

Speaking to BBC Radio Cymru's Dros Frecwast, Arnie Bartlett said: "Everyone is disappointed that it didn't work out with David Hughes.

"He's a genuine person who's interacted with the supporters, and we could see what he was trying to do on the pitch but with a small budget and a lot of injuries too.

"But football is a results business and we haven't won enough points – and the performance especially in the second half at Shrewsbury on Saturday was very flat.

"Everyone was thinking we need to change something and usually the attention turns to the manager."

Former Wales striker Nathan Blake said the decision to fire Hughes was "unavoidable" while ex-Wales defender Danny Gabbidon said: "It's going to be interesting to see where Newport go from here."

Asked who the club will turn to next to lead them in their fight against relegation, Bartlett said: "I've heard the long list of names that have been linked.

"It's very difficult for me to name one individual but one that can help us get better results on the pitch.

"There are 30 games left, people tend to forget that – it's so important that we keep in touch with the teams around us and then we'll have the transfer window in January to strengthen the squad."

County are next in League Two action on Saturday, 22 November, as they travel to Boundary Park to face mid-table Oldham Athletic.

After David Hughes was sacked on Saturday, Newport County are looking for a fifth permanent manager since Mike Flynn departed in 2021.

Was it the right decision for Hughes to go following the 1-0 defeat to relegation rivals Shrewsbury Town?

Who would Newport fans like to see take over the side, and what are the challenges facing any new boss?

Have your say here

Luke Hemmings
BBC Sport Wales

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Newport County boss David Hughes says he is unsure why he remains in charge, but promises to do "everything within his capabilities" to help Newport County turn their season around.

On Tuesday Newport's EFL Trophy campaigng ended in a 1-0 defeat by Exeter City, making it consecutive defeats following a 4-2 loss to Walsall last time out in League Two, in which Hughes' side conceded four "avoidable" goals.

Speaking on Thursday before Saturday's league match against Shrewsbury Hughes was asked if he knew why he was being given time to put things right.

"I don't know. It's a good question. I'm not sure. I'm not sure I can give you a real solid response, if I'm honest", Hughes said.

"All I know is that the staff and myself are doing everything within our capabilities to work with the players.

"And I think if you spoke to the players, they'd equally be as accepting that we are doing everything we can to equip them to win games."

Despite recent results, Hughes remains hopeful, saying: "I'm always optimistic when we get to game day that we're going to put a performance in to help us be successful."

A 3-0 win at Harrogate in Newport's last away league game helps prove there are signs of quality.

Hughes remains confident in his side and acknowledges results will determine his and the club's fate.

"Well, we believe so, yeah," Hughes said when asked whether his team had the quality to remain in League Two.

"On the outside, there's only one thing that will reinforce that and that's points on the board.

"There's a number of clubs down the bottom end with similar points totals and what we have to do is claw ourselves away from it."

Hughes will be hoping that his players can deliver a performance that will relieve the pressure on both themselves and the manager at fellow strugglers Shrewsbury on Saturday with kick off at 15:00 (GMT).

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Newport County are out of the EFL Trophy after a 1-0 defeat to League One side Exeter City in their final Southern Group A game.

Exeter captain Ed Turns' smart six-yard volley - after Newport failed to clear a corner in the 50th minute - sent the Grecians into the last 32 at County's expense on a night of torrential rain at Rodney Parade.

It might have been worse had County goalkeeper Nik Tzanev not saved a low goal-bound drive from substitute Reece Cole with six minutes left.

The closest Newport came to scoring was a fine 25-yard curling effort from forward Bobby Kamwa in the first half that was punched to safety by Exeter keeper Jack Bycroft.

Dave Hughes' side exit the competition with one win from their three group matches - a memorable 1-0 victory at Welsh rivals Cardiff City in October - while they were beaten 2-1 by Arsenal Under-21s at home in September.

Defeat to Exeter was Newport's 10th home loss of the season in all competitions, their poor form at Rodney Parade and the awful weather conditions contributing to a crowd of just 838.

Three points from safety at the bottom of League Two, Newport now travel to 23rd-placed Shrewsbury Town in a crucial relegation battle at New Meadow on Saturday.

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BBC Sport asked Newport County fans after the weekend's 4-2 loss to League Two leaders Walsall whether the Exiles can bounce back to beat fellow strugglers Shrewsbury Town this Saturday?

Here are some of the responses we received.

Steve: I'm hoping we can go to Shrewsbury and get a positive result, our away form shows we can beat these teams around us - ie Accrington, Harrogate, Crawley and a draw at Tranmere.

Martin: We won't win this game as it's a very important game. We don't win the six- pointers. Even though we have had some good form we are bottom. I dread to think what will happen when our form dips.

Robert: It's possible mathematically but is it possible psychologically? The Shrewsbury game will be our Rubicon.

Ade: I'm not confident of a result sadly and if we don't get a result then game over I feel. All you hear is that it'll be sorted in the January window. Can't see it. I've kept, as have many, faith over the years through thick and thin but this season is by far the worst.

Paul: Another false dawn from the Exiles. They again dominate possession but with their fragility at the back, the same old mistakes at set-pieces and a lack of a 20+ goal a season striker they look doomed. Unfortunately, [chairman Huw] Jenkins and [manager David] Hughes seem to be satisfied with this situation.

Mark: Home form is terrible, seven out of eight defeats. The pressure put on them by the home crowd must be affecting confidence. They are losing away but at least they won three. Predict a 2-0 win at Shrewsbury.

Oliver: Gaffer's post-match interviews make him seem delusional. CBR [Courtney Baker-Richardson] is the worst player I've ever seen in a County shirt. [Lee] Jenkins and [Sammy] Braybrooke are the only two players good enough for League Two.

Terry: Over the past three League Two seasons, the average points total required to avoid relegation is 46. If that is maintained this campaign, then Newport need another 35 from their 31 remaining fixtures. Given they currently have earned only 11 from a possible 45, their task is enormous!

Newport County went ahead against promotion chasing Walsall on Saturday – but in the end lost 4-2 at Rodney Parade.

Boss Dave Hughes said the four goals conceded were "avoidable" and that his side failed to build on the momentum of recent results.

But Hughes added that the team showed resilience against the Saddlers.

But despite defeat – and with some encouraging results of late – are you confident County can beat fellow League Two strugglers Shrewsbury Town this Saturday?

Have your say here

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Newport County boss Dave Hughes says his side failed to build on the momentum of recent results in losing 4-2 at home to promotion chasing Walsall.

Kai Whitmore put County ahead, but within a minute Daniel Kanu levelled and Ryan Finnigan then put the visitors ahead.

Finnigan's second put Walsall in control and although Ged Garner reduced the deficit, Rico Browne struck after the break to restore Walsall's two-goal advantage.

County remain rooted to the bottom of League Two and Hughes said all four goals conceded had been "avoidable."

"Disappointed would be an understatement because for spells we've more than matched them, but it's no point doing it for spells," Hughes said.

"The game is 95 minutes and we need to be capable of doing that for significantly longer than we did.

"We're hugely disappointed because I feel as if we've thrown away – when you watch the goals back – what momentum we were building.

"We still created opportunities in the second half.

"Disappointed for sure, but what's the positive? Right to the death we're trying to find a way – we didn't – but that shows the level of resilience within the squad."