HE admits that he’s slightly red-faced, but Andrew Brown is looking forward to pulling on the black and amber of Newport again next season.

The 31-year-old hooker decided to hang up his boots at the end of last season after making 250 appearances over nine seasons.

The British and Irish Cup encounter against Connacht Eagles in Athlone last April was meant to be Brown’s last.

However, the popular front row forward is back in pre-season training after making the sharpest of U-turns.

It is a retirement to rival those of Martyn Williams, who quit international rugby after the 2007 World Cup and was back winning the Grand Slam in 2008, or Audley Harrison, who announced his comeback in May, 20 days after quitting the ring.

Brown admits he had some doubts long before what was meant to be a last hurrah at Rodney Parade against Carmarthen Quins, when he received a standing ovation as he left the field.

“People were telling me that you are a long time retired and it did give me second thoughts,” said the former Newport captain.

“The performances were coming towards the end of the season and we had some good wins, so I thought perhaps I’d been a bit quick to make the decision.

“I was a bit red-faced about it but as long as I’m playing for Newport again I don’t really care what anyone else thinks.

“Playing for the club is a big part of my life and we’re all best mates. I’m not ready to go yet and it was best to make the decision to come back early.

“I hope the boys are glad to have me back, although there have been a few comments in the changing room!

“I’m really enjoying pre-season, everyone is raring to go and wants to make an impression.”

Brown’s swift change of heart is a welcome one for the Black and Ambers following the Dragons’ player allocations.

Newport believed they were to be given Wales Under-20s starlet Elliot Dee for the coming campaign but the decision has now been taken to leave him with Bedwas.

That means Brown will battle with Dale Rogers for the number two jersey.