NEWPORT County AFC manager Michael Flynn will step up his hunt for a new striker this week after Ade Azeez was ruled out for up to six months.

Azeez, who joined County from Cambridge United in January, is unlikely to be available until after Christmas due to an Achilles injury.

The 25-year-old scored once in 12 appearances as he helped the Exiles reach the League Two play-off final last season and his injury means Flynn is looking to recruit another forward, most likely on loan.

Padraig Amond and Jamille Matt, who scored 43 goals between them during the 2018-2019 campaign, are likely to remain as the first choice pairing up front.

Robbie Willmott and Keanu Marsh-Brown can play in wide attacking roles, while new signing Corey Whitely and academy graduate Momodou Touray are other options but Flynn wants more competition with Azeez ruled out.

South Wales Argus:

The Exiles boss is also looking to bring in at least one more midfielder after completing his defensive recruitment over the weekend.

Left wing-backs Ryan Haynes and George Nurse were signed up on Friday and Mickey Demetriou’s new two-year contract was finally confirmed on Saturday.

Mark O’Brien agreed a new deal in May, while County also brought in right-back Daniel Leadbitter and centre-backs Marvel Ekpiteta, Lazar Stojsavljevic and Kyle Howkins last month.

Midfielders Matty Dolan, Josh Sheehan and Joss Labadie have also committed to staying at Rodney Parade.

“It’s great news to get both Labs [Labadie] and Mickey signed up for the next two years," said Flynn.

“I wasn’t sure we’d be able to keep them both so I’m delighted that we have done.

“I had to sign defenders because I couldn’t guarantee that Mickey would agree to stay, but I’m very pleased that he has.”

Demetriou’s decision means that Dan Butler and Joe Day, who joined Peterborough United and Cardiff City respectively, are the only core members of the squad to move on this summer.

South Wales Argus:

“I’m delighted to be re-signing at the club,” said Demetriou, speaking to iFollowExiles after signing his contract extension.

“It felt the right decision and I’m buzzing it’s all completed and it’s finally been announced!

“I’m already looking forward to getting through this pre-season and kicking off the start of the new season at home in front of our fans.

“A big factor in my decision to stay was the fact the majority of the squad have stayed together from last year,” added the 29-year-old.

“We have all gelled so well and, with the additions the gaffer [Flynn] and Hats [assistant manager Wayne Hatswell] have added into the squad, I can’t wait for the season to start now, for us to get going, keep pushing on and do one better than we did last season.”