Newport County’s outgoing head coach Nelson Jardim believes he can return to his native Portugal with his head held high after “completing the job” he was asked to do.
Jardim left Rodney Parade by mutual consent today after Monday’s goalless draw with Walsall secured the club’s status in League Two for a 13thconsecutive campaign.
With his 12-month contract due to expire at the end of the season, Jardim felt it was in everybody’s interests to come to a decision on his future at the earliest opportunity.
“The plan was always to meet (with chairman Huw Jenkins) at the end of the season to discuss the future,’’ explained Jardim, who joined the club in July. “But with safety secured on Monday, it was agreed to bring the meeting forward.
“Having completed the job I was asked to do, I felt it was time for a new challenge; spend time with my young family, while also giving the club the extra time to plan for my successor.
“I want to thank the players and the fans for their support this season. I’m sure the majority understood that the task I faced was always going to be a tough one with so many new, inexperienced players joining the club.
“But we got the job done, so from that point of view I only see it as a success.
“We gave 18 debuts to new signings, 12 of which made their League debuts, and I think the experience they’ve gained will only stand them and the club in good stead for the future.’’
Everyone at Newport County thanks Nelson for his fantastic contribution and wishes him all the best in the future.