NEWPORT County AFC manager Justin Edinburgh received an early Christmas present this week with the news that Aaron O’Connor and Max Porter could be fit before the festive period.

Andy Sandell, another long-term injury victim, will be in the squad to face Chesterfield at Rodney Parade tomorrow (kick-off 1pm), and O’Connor and Porter won’t be too far behind.

Striker O’Connor was the Exiles’ top scorer as they won promotion from the Conference last season but hasn’t played in League Two because of a serious groin injury.

Porter made two starts in August but has not completed 90 minutes since January due to a similar groin problem.

But both are stepping up their recovery and on track to return ahead of schedule.

“We’re delighted with the progress the injured players are making,” said Edinburgh.

“Andy comes into contention for Sunday and will certainly be in the squad.

“Max Porter is progressing well and he’s been out since January really so that will be big boost.

“Chris (Zebroski) and Byron (Anthony) are a little way off but Aaron and Max and Ryan Burge all have a possibility of being back involved this side of the New Year and that’s massive.”

After Tuesday’s 0-0 draw at League Two leaders Oxford United, Edinburgh is expecting another big test against second-placed Chesterfield tomorrow.

“Every game we play at this level is going to be tough,” he added. “We went to Oxford, the league leaders, and gave a fantastic account of ourselves.

“We’ll have to have that same level of performance on Sunday to get anything out of the game but with our home record we’ll be looking for another positive outcome.”

Another big boost for County is the news that defender Adedeji Oshilaja’s loan from Cardiff City has been extended until January 6.

“Cardiff have been fantastic in helping us and allowing Deji to continue his development here,” said the Exiles boss.

“I think we’ve seen what a class act he is and how well he’s settled in to the group and we’re delighted to have secured him until early January.

“He needs to be playing men’s football. He’s well ahead of academy football and if you’re playing that for too long you can get bored and you stand still.

“I think it’s a win-win situation for everyone. We’re able to give good feedback to Cardiff and he can continue his learning with us.”

Supporters can still take advantage of discount ticket prices for tomorrow’s game by buying in advance online or by calling in person from the ticket office at Rodney Parade, which will be open until 1pm today.