NEWPORT County AFC midfielder Lee Minshull believes that Sunday’s 5-2 win over Aston Villa’s under-21s sets the Exiles up perfectly for the big League Two kick-off.

Justin Edinburgh’s men host Accrington Stanley at Rodney Parade on Saturday in their first Football League fixture since 1988.

And midfield star Minshull, who scored two goals in the comprehensive victory over the Villa youngsters, is certain that County are ready to hit the ground running.

“I’m really pleased,” said the 27-year-old.

“The first half was tough. We were doing a lot of work and a lot of chasing off the ball. But second half I think we did well. We pressed them better, won the ball in important areas and got some goals.

“They were very good technically so it was a good workout and it sets us up nicely for the first League game.

“We were very tight towards the end of last season with five at the back and we’ve scored a few goals in pre-season so hopefully we can keep that going.”

Minshull is hoping that his goals will earn him a starting place on Saturday with strong competition from Max Porter, Mike Flynn and Adam Chapman for a midfield berth.

“I have set myself a target, which I won’t reveal, but they seem to come in batches for me so I hope it carries on for a while yet,” he said.

“We’ve got a very good squad now and it’s going to be very competitive.

“Max Porter coming back gives us an extra body in midfield so it is looking very positive for us.”