NEWPORT County AFC’s energetic next generation are getting the chance to catch the eye of boss Nelson Jardim when keeping seniors on the fringes sharp.

The Exiles have a small list of senior absentees after their problems in September and October, meaning that several players are being left out of the matchday squad in League Two.

The likes Luke Jephcott, Kiban Rai, Joe Thomas and Josh Seberry have not been featuring while influential full-back/midfielder Shane McLoughlin is one of those needing to work their way towards full sharpness after injury.

There will be a chance to get some action in the EFL Trophy at Reading on Tuesday but, as was a frequent complaint of Jardim’s predecessor Graham Coughlan, County don’t have a reserve team to top up fitness with fixtures.

However, the Exiles have been using their Under-18s side – which features centre-back Nelson Sanca, who has played in League Two this season, and midfielder Jac Norris, who played run-in last term – to provide meaningful activity.

COMEBACK: Shane McLoughlin is among those working their way back to fitness with CountyCOMEBACK: Shane McLoughlin is among those working their way back to fitness with County (Image: Kian Abdullah/Huw Evans Agency)

“After league games, those who haven’t played much play with the academy in-house,” said head coach Jardim.

“It’s difficult to travel and find teams for games but this gives them a taste of competition and also helps us to get to know the youth of the club.

“The boys are doing well [in the EFL Youth Alliance] and when they train with us they bring enthusiasm and energy that raises the level of everybody.

“We have the likes of Nelson, Jac, Dan Barton, Moses Alexander-Walker, Corey Evans, I can name many.

“It’s making sure we get to know the academy better and give them a boost, so that they feel they are being assessed and watched.”

The youngsters are in action on Sunday when they travel to face Flint Town United in the second round of the FAW Youth Cup.