NEWPORT County's bid to retain the majority of their squad for next season has received a massive boost, main man John Brough has agreed to sign up.

Brough, 33, has been the rock on which County's superb revival in the Conference South was based, his performances since signing for the club have been exceptional.

The ex-Cheltenham Town defender signed from Conference League outfit Aldershot in February and apart for his debut - a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Weymouth - he has been imperious, forming a superb partnership with Ian Hillier.

Brough could have taken his pick of non-league clubs this summer, but has decided to stay at County because he has enjoyed his time with the club so much and believes they can push for promotion next season.

He explained: "From day two (I don't count Weymouth on day one!) I have absolutely loved my time with Newport - it's been a fantastic experience.

"I was involved in 11 games for County and I enjoyed that time far more than I did in the previous 25 games for Aldershot, even though that was a higher level of football.

"Our form in that time has been that of a top six team and that is where I believe we will be next season, obviously I think we can push for promotion or I wouldn't want to stay."

London-based Brough initially only joined County with a view to a short-term move, after boss Peter Beadle saw on Teletext that he was leaving Aldershot.

However, his superb form prompted County to try and make the move permanent and Brough will even relocate to the Cheltenham area in order to be closer to Newport.

"I used to live in that part of the world and we have plenty of friends there and it is closer to Newport, so moving back to the West will be how I spend my summer," Brough said.

"The fact that Peter (Beadle) and Scott (Young) are staying on is a big factor as well.

"They are a very impressive duo and I think they can really take this club places, the team spirit here is as good as I've ever known.

"I feel I still have a couple of years in me and could play at a higher level, but I want to achieve my ambitions with County.

"In the twilight of your career you want to leave a positive legacy and the bottom line is I believe I will do that with Newport because the club have given my playing career a new lease of life."

More players retained by manager Beadle are expected to be unveiled this week.