PAT Mountain last night pledged his future to Newport County amid speculation that Forest Green Rovers are planning to swoop for the Welsh semi-pro goalkeeper.

Fans' favourite Mountain admitted playing in the Nationwide Conference is his ultimate dream - but the 26-year-old insisted: "I want to be there with Newport County."

Former Exiles chief Tim Harris was this week unveiled as a coaching assistant to Colin Addison at the Wiltshire Conference outfit.

Harris was Addison's boss early last season during Addison's two-month stint at County - but the veteran coach left Newport Stadium in September after two months take over at then bottom-of-the-table Rovers before guiding them to safety.

Harris was manager at Spytty Park for five-and-a-half years before Peter Nicholas replace him last November but his links with County spark obvious rumours that he will come looking for Newport's top stars.

Skipper Matt Rose, his midfielder partner Nathan Davies and Welsh semi-pro caps striker Garry Shephard and Mountain have been mentioned - but Nicholas was quick to issue a hands-off warning.

"They are all part of my plans at Newport County and they're not going anywhere," insisted Nicholas.

"They are all contracted to this club and enjoy playing for Newport County."

Former Welsh Under-21 international Mountain is top of County's current appearance list with 199 appearances. The stopper, now recovered from a knee injury, is "flattered" with the link to a Conference side but promised Exiles fans his loyalty.

"I love playing for Newport County," he said. "I am desperately looking forward to a good season."