JAMIE Collins believes Newport County can win promotion without him next season, writes Andrew Penman.

The out-of-contract midfielder yesterday completed his move to League Two Aldershot to link up once again with ex-County manager Dean Holdsworth.

Collins found the offer to play in the Football League too good to turn down at the age of 26 but he insists Exiles boss Anthony Hudson is building a squad capable of promotion at Spytty Park.

“It’s been a long drawn out process but I had a medical and signed a one-year deal today,” he told the Argus.

“I’ve known Dean since I was nine years old and we’ve always been successful together. The offer to join him in the Football League was one I couldn’t turn down.

“At this stage of my career it may have been my last chance to play at a higher level so I’m delighted to have signed.

“Of course I’m sad to leave Newport County,” he added.

“These have been the best two years of my career and I’ll never forget the promotion season.

“That was a special time for all the players and the city as a whole.

“I’ve already said to the boys that I’ll be back to watch a few games next season and I’ll always look out for their results.”

Collins becomes the seventh member of last season’s squad to leave the Exiles after Glyn Garner, Chris Todd and loan stars Kerry Morgan, Graeme Montgomery, Yemi Odubade and Charlie Griffin, but he is convinced his old side could be joining him in League Two before too long.

“The structure is definitely there to go up with crowds of 4,000 in the last few years, which is phenomenal, and I really hope they make it,” he said.

“I always had a great relationship with the fans and the travelling support in particular was brilliant.

“Not many sides can match that level of support in the Conference and I really believe they can challenge with a few good signings this summer,” he added.

“I’m leaving on good terms with the club. The gaffer knows that I wanted to play at a higher level and the location is right for me too.

“I had offers from two or three other clubs and I could have joined Stevenage in January but this move was right for me and I hope people can understand that.”

Hudson is sad to lose such an important player but insists there are no hard feelings.

“Jamie is a really strong player and someone I respect a lot and we wish him all the best,” said the County manager.

County have confirmed that they will host Bolton Wanderers at Spytty Park on Saturday, July 30, as part of their pre-season friendly programme. The Premier League side have promised to bring a full first team squad for the fixture.