New signing Josh Martin hopes his experience will be play a part as Newport County look to mount a strong second half of the 2024-25 season.
The 23-year-old versatile attacker, who came through the academies of both Arsenal and Norwich City, has signed a six-month deal with the Exiles, which includes a further option.
His arrival offers a significant boost to manager Nelson Jardim’s attacking options as the team aims to strengthen its squad for the challenges ahead.
“I’m really excited to join the club,” said Martin. “I’m looking forward to getting out there, playing with the lads, and starting to put in some good performances.
“I spoke to the manager not long ago, and we instantly had a really good connection. I also met the lads today, and they seem like a really good group. The training session went well - the intensity was high, which is great.”
“For me, a big part of this move was speaking to the manager. That’s crucial at this stage of my career - building a good relationship with the manager, the club, and the players. I also think the style of football here suits me. When you have all these things in place, it’s an opportunity you can’t turn down.”
Martin arrives at Rodney Parade with a wealth of experience for a 23-year-old, having made five Premier League appearances for Norwich City as a teenager during the 2019-20 season.
He was also part of the Canaries' Sky Bet Championship title-winning squad, helping them secure promotion to the Premier League.
More recently, Martin was a key figure in Portsmouth’s League One promotion-winning campaign last season before joining Notts County.
The attacker believes his experience will be invaluable for the Exiles as they look to push on this season.
“My time at Norwich in the Premier League was fantastic, but I’d say most of my experience now comes from playing in League One and League Two,” Martin explained.
“I think I can bring a lot of that experience here, as well as the lessons I’ve learned from playing alongside some really quality players. I hope to share that experience with the team and help in any way I can.
“I’ve been quite versatile, playing as a winger, attacking midfielder, wing-back, and striker. I’d say my best position is either as a number 10 or as a winger on either side. I like to bring creativity, chip in with goals, and contribute to the team going forward.”
Subject to international clearance Martin could be in line to make his debut in Friday’s clash against Swindon Town - the club he last faced for Notts County in League Two earlier this season.
“Funny enough, my last game was against Swindon, and I had a good performance," he added.
"So, I’m hoping to bring that same form into this game and really make an impact. I’m definitely looking forward to it, and I’m aiming for three points.”
“I’m always looking forward to playing in front of the fans. I’ve heard the atmosphere here is fantastic.
"The stadium has changed a bit since I was last here, but I’m excited to play in the new version of the stadium with the fans behind us. Hopefully, we can get three points on Friday - it would be great!”