NEWPORT County AFC will offer new Wales international Josh Sheehan a fresh contract – but manager Michael Flynn says the playmaker will go with their blessing if he wants to test himself at a higher level.

The 25-year-old is now a contender for next summer’s Euros after his superb start to the season with the League Two leaders earned a first international call-up.

Sheehan made his Wales debut in the second half of the friendly draw against the United States at the Liberty Stadium and was then on the bench for the Nations League wins against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.

The Swansea City academy graduate’s classy performances in the middle of the park for County are sure to have attracted the attention of clubs in the Championship and League One.

Sheehan is out of contract at the end of the season but Flynn, knowing his midfielder has the ability to play up the leagues, has urged supporters to be relaxed about losing their playmaker.

South Wales Argus:

"What's the point in worrying? What will be, will be,” said Flynn, who said that County will put a new contract on the table for Sheehan to mull over.

"If Josh goes then he goes with our blessing because he has earned it. Just make the most of him while he is here."

Key to keeping Sheehan at Rodney Parade until the summer at least is the leaders maintaining a push for League One.

"I am sure he would want a promotion but he has got a family to think of as well,” said Flynn, who signed Sheehan on a permanent deal in 2018.

“If somebody comes in for him in January and meets his buy-out clause then there is nothing that we can really do about it.

"If Josh decides that he wants to stay until the summer then great, if Josh decides that he wants to sign a new deal then even better.

"But I am no pressure whatsoever on him because I want him focusing on playing his best football for the time that we have got him."

Sheehan played for Wales at age-grade level but had to battle back from ruptured knee ligaments that led to his release by the Swans to win a senior cap.

South Wales Argus: Michael Flynn (right) with Josh Sheehan (centre) and Mark O'Brien (left)Michael Flynn (right) with Josh Sheehan (centre) and Mark O'Brien (left)

“He’s a lovely lad, a great professional, talented footballer, family man. I couldn’t be happier for somebody getting an international cap than I am for Josh,” said Flynn.

“He showed real strength in character and a good mentality. He’s had his down days, believe me.

“He’s been really down, rock bottom at times, but we’ve managed to keep together and support him.

“His family have been amazing with him, and now with the birth of his little one he’s got a real purpose in life to not only play as high as he can but to support his family.”

Wales are next in action in March and Flynn believes Sheehan can earn a second call-up and push for summer football.

“He will set himself a goal now of being on that plane to the Euros,” said the manager. “Can he get there? Yes. I’ll tell him promotion first then he can go to the Euros.”