NEWPORT County boss John Cornforth has made his first move into the transfer market since taking over from Peter Nicholas, snapping up a Wales under-21 international.

Nineteen-year old Liam Powell has joined County on a non-contract basis after being released from Leicester City and he goes straight into the squad for today's game at home to Carshalton Athletic (kick-off 3pm).

Powell is a right-back who can also operate in midfield and he has so far earned three under-21 caps, as well as representing Wales at under-19 and 20 levels.

Cornforth said: "We are delighted to have got Liam in because it is a move that works out really well for everyone.

"We can bring Liam in without putting a dent in our budget and after being released from Leicester Liam has a lot to prove and he is keen to do well here.

"Mickey Adams released five or six youngsters at the same time and perhaps that was a bit of a heat of the moment decision, but we are really keen to have a close look at Liam.

"If we were a full-time club we could get him in and assess him over a few days but because of how many times we get together it is fairer to judge him over the next three or four weeks.

"I am very keen to sign young, hungry players and he definitely fits the criteria in that respect.

"At this time we are looking at one or two more experienced players as well because you need balance but someone like Liam, who has played in the Leicester reserves, will give us a nice boost.

"Another lad from Leicester was supposed to be coming down as well, a winger, but he was unsure so I told the agent to tell him not to bother, because we need players who absolutely want to be here."

Newport will also welcome another youngster into the squad today, but this one will be more familiar to the Spytty faithful as he was playing for County last season.

Young goalkeeper Andrew Delve, 20, has returned to provide cover for Roger Freestone, who is a fitness doubt after suffering a knock to the ankle.

Delve has been playing at Caldicot this year and jumped at the chance of a County reunion.

Cornforth admitted the scramble to draft in the youngster had been difficult, but he is sure he can do a good job if called on.

He explained: "I've had very little sleep trying to sort out a keeper on cover and it is a bit of a nightmare to be honest.

"But a lot of people have recommended Andrew as a fine goalkeeper, including Roger Freestone and I am looking forward to working with him."

Nathan Davies is still ruled out with an ankle problem and Freestone will have a late fitness test.