CLUB legend Mark O'Brien says Newport County AFC don't need to panic in their hunt for a new boss because caretaker manager Wayne Hatswell will keep things running "like clockwork".

The Exiles beat Scunthorpe United 3-0 at Rodney Parade in League Two on Saturday the day after the exit of Michael Flynn.

His assistant Wayne Hatswell, who has been hugely influential in the club going from almost certain relegation to promotion contenders, held the reins against the Iron.

He will continue to call the shots while County hunt their next boss and is leading preparations for Saturday's home fixture against Bradford City, a game that is followed by tricky trips to Exeter City and Bristol Rovers.

County want to remain in the promotion pack as winter approaches but have been encouraged to take their time when picking Flynn's replacement.

BOSS: Coach Wayne Hatswell is in charge while County hunt a new manager

BOSS: Coach Wayne Hatswell is in charge while County hunt a new manager

"In due time they will have to go out and get a permanent replacement, that's inevitable," said O'Brien, who remains part of the club coaching team after retiring in 2020 because of heart surgery.

"But for how the club has been, the players that we have and how settled everyone is, Wayne Hatswell being in charge is going to be like clockwork.

"Everyone will give it their all as they do every single week and having Wayne around keeps everyone level-headed and very grounded.

"I am sure he will want nothing more than success and to do well for as long as the club want him in for.

"Moving forward, the club will have to make that decision of getting someone in who suits and fits what Newport are about rather than just panicking. I do think keeping Wayne in for as long as they can will keep the journey going."

O'Brien was a key figure in the rise of Flynn, scoring the dramatic late winner that sealed the great escape from relegation in 2017.

The defender was captain for the Wembley loss to Tranmere in the 2019 League Two play-off semi-final, when dismissed for two bookings, and remained part of the club after hanging up his boots last summer.

"Flynny has been someone who I played alongside when I was first here, he was someone that became my manager and became a great friend off the field with my open heart surgery and off the field things," said the Irishman.

"He has been amazing for me here and I am pretty gutted that he has stepped down.

"He brought pride back to Newport, he made everyone work really hard for the shirt, he brought the fans back in, he brought a bit of belief back to the city. He did so much more than anyone expected.

"Maybe he surprised himself a bit, but he had enough confidence in his abilities else he wouldn't have stepped in and taken the job. It's been one hell of a rollercoaster."