FORMER Newport County favourite Ian Hillier has spoken of his delight at winning an appeal against his sacking by the club but insists he will never play for the Exiles again while the current board is in place.

The ex-Tottenham and Luton Town central defender was appointed captain by manager Dean Holdsworth at the start of this season but had his contract abruptly terminated last month after an accident at work left his leg broken in three places.

An appeal board panel made up of Conference and Conference South chairmen decided in favour of Hillier at Bath City’s Twerton Park ground yesterday, leaving County 10 days to decide whether to launch their own appeal to that decision or make a financial settlement to the player.

“I’m thrilled to bits,” said Hillier after the decision was announced.

“It justifies what I did and shows that they were definitely in the wrong morally to cancel my contract.

“I thought I’d be at County for ever but I can’t see myself going back after what they’ve done,” he added.

“I’m still in touch with a lot of the players and I wish them all the best. The supporters have been fantastic too with various fundraising events and I can’t express how thankful I am to them.

“I’m just really disappointed with the actions of the board and the only way I could play for the club again would be if those at the top were to leave.”

The 28-year-old did reveal, however, that he is determined to resume his football career once fully fit.

“I will definitely be back, the experts say my leg is healing perfectly,” said Hillier. “Hopefully within six months I’ll be ready to return and I can’t wait.”

The Argus understands that County chairman Chris Blight did not attend the meeting with the club represented instead by secretary and solicitor John Allison.

Neither Blight or Allison were available to make a comment on the decision despite attempts to contact them yesterday.