THERE appears to be something of a difference of opinion regarding the players being signed by Justin Edinburgh this summer.

To some the message reads loud and clear and has done for well over a year: in Just we trust.

However, there appears to be growing unease at the recruitment job from Newport County AFC this summer and it strikes me as odd when, to my mind at least, they’ve effectively moved to plug holes and cover deficiencies.

The discontent, it seems, is in large part because the Exiles aren’t signing more established, more experienced players. Namely, they aren’t signing players that fans have necessarily heard of.

It’s all very well to advocate making a ‘cheeky’ bid for Simon Davies, now a free agent after leaving Fulham, but no practical thought is given to that.

How would you pay his wages? Why would he want to join a League Two club? What could he offer after effectively three years on the sidelines?

The answer, to all those questions, I imagine, is along the lines of: “I don’t know. But he scored a wicked goal against Italy, he’s got big experience and most importantly, I’ve heard of him.”

There are more realistic variations on this theme, either with locality used as a key reason to sign someone – Gavin Williams from Yeovil for example – or when there is a chance to re-sign a former player. I’m honestly asked almost on a daily basis when Paul Bignot is coming back!

The desire of many to see experienced campaigners and the scepticism about Edinburgh’s actions are a surprise to me.

County are brimming with experience, from the goalkeeper to their strikers – a squad with hundreds of Football League appearances.

It’s not a group lacking in much. Edinburgh has systematically looked to strengthen across the board and in Adam Chapman has signed a player who should enhance the first XI.

All other signings are likely to be battling to force their way in.

It appears to be the summer of signing ‘the former next big thing’ with Arsene Wenger, Rafa Benitez and Jose Mourinho alumni all joining the club but Edinburgh prides technique and physicality above all else so that’s not at all surprising.

This is, remember, the manager who blooded teen Lee Evans at Wembley and then picked Alex Gilbey for the play-offs.

There is also zero consideration being given to County’s financial constraints. The Football League FFP rules are restrictive for a promoted club who don’t yet know what their average gate might be. Newport are being prudent because they have to be.

Doom and gloom before a ball is kicked just doesn’t make a bit of sense. If you can’t be excited now, what hope is there?