ADAM Chapman says Newport County can forget about making the League Two play-offs this season – because he’s targeting automatic promotion.

After matching league leaders Oxford United away from home on Tuesday Chapman is convinced that the Exiles have nothing to fear from their promotion rivals.

And the midfielder is certain they can underline their credentials with victory over second-placed Chesterfield at Rodney Parade on Sunday (kick-off 1pm).

“We went to the team at the top of the table, who are five points ahead of us, and I don’t think there was a massive difference between the teams,” said Chapman.

“There’s no reason why we can’t aim for that top three spot.

“We need to kick on from a few good results now with a win against Chesterfield.

“We will have a good go at them and I’ve got every confidence in us getting a win on Sunday.

“Our home form has been terrific and it’s just about picking up some points on the road now,” he added.

“We’d like a few more wins away from home but while we’re not losing we’re doing OK.

“If we can start turning some of these draws into wins we’ll have every chance of going up automatically.”

A big part of County’s recent good run has been the defence with five clean sheets in a row since the 1-1 draw at Braintree Town in the FA Cup.

And Chapman picked out makeshift left wing-back Robbie Willmott for special praise for the impressive way he has filled in for injury victim Andy Sandell.

“Robbie has never played as a left wing-back before in his life and he’s been superb,” said Chapman of his fellow midfielder.

“Some of the positions he finds himself in and the covering he’s doing is brilliant.

“He doesn’t get beaten and he’s been unbelievable. He’s been a real find.

“Nobody expected him to play there. If somebody had said he’s going to play 15 games at left wing-back we’d have all laughed so it just shows what a good job he’s doing.”

Willmott has slotted in alongside Ismail Yakubu, Harry Worley, Adedeji Oshilaja and Ryan Jackson in a rock solid back five this month.

“Ish, Harry, Deji and Ryan have been fantastic as well,” added Chapman. “They’re big, powerful and strong and we’re looking really solid. The continuity is obviously paying off.”