NEWPORT County's newest striking recruit George Barker got a first-hand account of the potency of the Exiles, but now he's determined to add to their firepower.

The 22-year old forward, on loan from Brighton, made his debut as a late substitute in Saturday's 0-0 draw at Cheltenham.

However, Barker is already familiar with his new teammates having had a front row seat as they stunned his parent club with a 3-1 triumph at the Amex Arena back in August in the Capital One Cup.

The Exiles remain sixth in League Two, inside the play-off places and have accrued four successive clean sheets on the spin ahead of tomorrow's tantalising trip to league leaders Oxford United.

Impressed with what he's seen, Barker has no doubts the Exiles can continue to soar despite the whirlwind nature of his move.

"I was at the game against Brighton in the cup and it was great stuff from Newport, they played really well and they've kicked on, it's clear they aren't a team to be taken lightly," Barker told the Argus.

"It's nice to get some game time and it's a great move for me, since last season Newport have been on the up and they started the season really well in League Two.

"Now with Christmas and lots of games, I want to help the team as much as I can."

Barker confessed the move has taken him by surprise.

"It all came about very quickly, my agent spoke to me on Friday about the interest and I haven't even trained with the lads yet, I only knew on the Friday night and it was all completed in time for me to play thankfully.

"I only met the players for the first time just before the game which isn't ideal, but I'm looking forward to working with them.

"It's a great chance for me, all a player wants is a chance to show what they can do and I want to do as well as I can."

Boss Justin Edinburgh is hopeful Barker can contribute.

"He's impressed us in the Brighton development games, he's been around their first team squad and we hope he enjoys his time here, we're delighted to have him."

Edinburgh believes there is no reason why his side can't win tomorrow's game at high-flying Oxford.

The Exiles will meet the league leaders - and former player Danny Rose - at the Kassam Stadium and Edinburgh insists confidence is high.

"In every game we've played in, apart from Rochdale, we've acquitted ourselves well, we're delighted with the form we're in," he said.

"We don't fear anyone, including Oxford, we respect them but we are absolutely full of confidence, the last couple of weeks have been fantastic."