NEWPORT County pair Jeff Eckhardt and Gareth Wesson have pleaded with boss Peter Nicholas to keep them on at Spytty Park.

Veteran defender Eckhardt's contract will expire this summer but the 37-year-old insists he has still got another season left in the tank.

Wesson, meanwhile, has impressed in the Dr Martens League Premier Division since he joined the Exiles on loan from Welsh League outfit Newport YMCA.

Nicholas is still considering which players to offer extended deals to with Eckhardt and centre-back partner Billy Clark two players whose current contracts end at pre-season.

"I really hope I'm part of Peter Nicholas' plans," said the former Cardiff City player.

"I've done ok this season and I'd like to think I've got one year left in me."

Stopper Wesson, 21, was drafted in as goalkeeping cover after regular No 1 Pat Mountain was ruled out for the rest of the season after injuring his left knee.

"I'm enjoying every minute," he said. "It is a big step up to Dr Martens League level but it's great and I'm coming on well with my team-mates.

"I'm not sure about my future because Pat is back next season and doesn't get injured that often - but I'd love to stay on."

Nicholas, who has a penchant for younger players, will be undertaking a slight rebuilding job at County in the close season as he looks to bring in his own men to Newport Stadium.

However, Eckhardt said: If you're going to have a lot of kids you need a few experienced lads who'll talk them through and know what it's all about, especially in the physical Dr Martens League."