Bogey man Kevin Ellison won't add to Newport County problems

County’s confidence is at a low ebb after the 4-2 defeat at Grimsby Town last Tuesday was followed by a 5-0 hammering at Oldham Athletic at the weekend.

So the last thing they needed was to come up against a man who has scored six goals, notched up six assists and won three penalties in 13 games against them over the last six-and-a-half years.

But Ellison, who came off the bench at half-time to inspire a second-half fightback as the Shrimps beat Michael Flynn’s men 2-1 at the Globe Arena in December, is out of favour under new boss Derek Adams.

The 41-year-old hasn’t played since New Year’s Day and took to Twitter last week to reveal that he has been forced to train on his own.

County’s top scorer Padraig Amond was quick to respond.

“Ridiculous,” said the Irishman, who spent two years at Morecambe. “At least you can’t have us off again next week, though.”

To which Ellison replied: “Gutted lad, might never get that chance again.”

Former Exiles midfielder Maxime Blanchard, who played under Adams at Plymouth Argyle, also sympathised with Ellison.

“Would love to say I’m shocked,” he posted.

“Wouldn’t be tolerated in any working environment. Really appalling and upsetting to see this.

“Respect comes from your peers though Kev, you know it.”

Another ex-County man, Jon Parkin, added: "And they say players should be loyal to clubs. How long you been there? They soon forget what you’ve done for them once a new manager comes in.”

Replying to a message of support, Ellison said: “Don’t want to be treated better or differently from others, nor did I expect to play when he came in. But costs nothing to show respect and treat people right in any walk of life.”

Asked by County fan Jason Austin if he’d be travelling to Rodney Parade, Ellison joked: “Not unless the kit man, coach driver and boot cleaner all get sick.”

Read more: Newport County boss questions players' character after drubbing at Oldham Athletic