Head coach Nelson Jardim has expressed his excitement ahead of Newport County’s opening League Two fixture against Cheltenham Town on Saturday afternoon.
The Exiles head to the EV Charger Point Stadium looking to kick-start their league campaign on the front foot and will be looking to secure an opening day win for the first time in three seasons.
And following his first pre-season as County boss, the Portuguese shared his feelings on becoming a head coach for the first time and how his previous coaching stint in South Wales will support his transition.
“Obviously I know the country well and I’m really looking forward to the challenge of bringing in a new style of play to the club,” Jardim told Sky Sports News this morning.
“I think we are in a good position going into the first game. We’ve had a couple of weeks to work and the boys have been great, I have nothing but the best to say about them because they’ve been working hard and they’re very committed in understanding the way we’re going to play.
“We have two or three more days now to make sure we’re ready in all aspects of our game.”
The Exiles’ head coach went on to give a little bit more insight into the philosophy he intends to build at the County.
“Well it’s a possession based style of football, we have to be able to take control of the ball and we must enjoy ourselves when we’re playing,” he added.
“That’s the type of football I believe in because I don’t like my team to be chasing the ball for 90 minutes so I want to control the ball in our half.
“I think the main point for this season is to make sure we can clearly see the new style of football being implemented and hopefully that style of play can create a comfortable season for us.
“Comfortability will allow us to keep thinking and focusing on improving the style of football which can hopefully attract new players to the club.”
Explaining his views on Saturday, Jardim continued: "There’s still three days to go and I think we’re all looking forward to that game.
“Me, the staff and the players all know it’s going to be a tough game against a good side with a good manager who did very well for us.
"Also, they have some good players who used to play for us too, so we’re definitely looking forward to it and I’m sure it's going to be a good game.”
"I don't like to be chasing the ball for 90 minutes"
Nelson Jardim explains his vision for @NewportCounty 👨🏫#EFLisback | https://t.co/q4U8c12m5C pic.twitter.com/FsRGQclXYX— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) August 7, 2024