JASON Perry last night hit-back at claims he has been lining his pockets during his eight-month exile from Newport County - and insisted: "I never wanted to stay away from the club."

The 32-year-old, who was relieved from his assistant managerial duties at Newport Stadium in March after a dispute with chief Tim Harris, claims he was told in a letter from the club to "stay away from training, club functions and on match-days."

But Perry, an ex-Welsh international, is delighted with County's U-turn and vowed: "I'll come back to County and give 100%."

Perry is still under contract as a player to the Exiles until the summer 2004 and has been picking up his wage packet ever since he 'left' the Dr Martens Premier League club.

But ex-Cardiff City hero Perry said: "From day one I never wanted to stay away from the club - but I was told to.

"They have prevented me from doing what I was contracted to do.

"I am very proud of the job I did as assistant manager of Newport County, even in such a short space of time.

I helped them to a memorable FA date with Blackpool, an FAW Premier Cup quarter-final clash with Swansea City and ultimately fifth in the league.

"But I take no pride when I say I think the club have gone backwards since I left.

"I feel I helped took the club forward in a short space of time and I feel some people at the club were uncomfortable with that."

Defender Perry also claims he approached County's board of directors in the summer to discuss a settlement but the club rejected.

"Then a few weeks ago the club offered me a much lower settlement figure," said Perry.

"I couldn't accept it because the fee was so low and I wouldn't be able find a side because I'm unfit and the season had already started."

Perry slammed County's handling of the matter, blasting: "The club have put themselves in this position.

"They've handled this matter in a very unprofessional manner."

But he vowed: "I am more than happy to return to the club.

"I bear no grudges, I will go back in a playing capacity and have no influence on the coaching side "It has been frustrating sitting at home when I should be playing or training at Newport County.

However, I will go back and do what I'm paid to do to the best of my ability."