EVERYONE at Newport County AFC is stunned and devastated by the shocking news of the death of our former manager Justin Edinburgh at the age of 49.
The club’s thoughts and prayers are with Justin’s widow Kerri and children Charlie and Cydnie. We hope they will be able to find some comfort in the outpouring of love and respect for Justin from the worldwide football family.
Justin took County back into the Football League after a 25-year absence, and again achieved promotion to League Two last month by managing Leyton Orient to the National Conference title.
County manager Michael Flynn, who played under Justin in the promotion-winning team, said: “Justin was a special man he would light up any room he entered with his charisma and friendliness.
“Not only was he an excellent manager, he was a loyal friend, and a loving dad and husband.
“Justin will go down as one of Newport’s best managers ever and he goes out a champion. RIP my friend.”
Club operational chairman Gavin Foxall said: “What Justin achieved as manager will forever live in the memories of everyone associated with our club.
“Football has lost a great man and our thoughts and prayers are with Justin’s family and friends at this sad time. RIP Justin.”
Director Mike Everett was club secretary during Justin’s tenure as manager. He said: “It was an honour and privilege to have worked with Justin, who was a genuinely top man.
“He delivered us the holy grail of Football League status and leaves us all with special memories from his time with the County.
“Just, I’ll see you on the far post - the world of football is a poorer place without you.”
Justin joined County in October 2011 with the club in danger of relegation from the then Conference Premier.
Within months, he had steered the club to safety and to the FA Trophy Final – County’s first-ever appearance at Wembley.
The following season, Justin took County to Wembley again in the Conference Premier play-off final after finishing third in the division.
In beating Wrexham 2-0, Justin managed the club back into the Football League for the first time since its reformation in 1989.
Justin left for Gillingham in February 2015 with County sitting sixth in League Two. Justin managed the club in 181 matches, winning 75, drawing 46 and losing 60.
No County supporter will ever forget the joy of winning the play-off final in 2013. But that joy pales into insignificance when compared to the sorrow we all feel at Justin’s passing.
Justin will forever be a part of County’s history and of the County family. He will never be forgotten by our club.
Sleep well, Gaffer.