Newport County has secured the services of highly rated defender Lewis Payne on a season-long loan from Championship side Southampton.
Payne, 19, has been at the Saints since the age of nine and has progressed through the age groups, signing his first professional contract with Southampton in November 2021.
Part of the club’s U18’s Premier League South title-winning team in the 2021-22 campaign, he capped an impressive personal campaign last season by making his senior debut in the Carabao Cup second round, playing 75 minutes, and assisting Che Adams’ opener.
The versatile defender, whose preferred position is at right-back, has trained regularly with the first team and captained the B team on multiple occasions.
Newport boss, Graham Coughlan, was delighted to strengthen his defence for the campaign ahead.
“Lewis is a great utility player, he’s adventurous and will open up that (Right) side of the pitch.” he said.
“He’ll give us some great options through his versatility and looking at him, he can play three or four positions.
“We of course are still searching and seeking that key striker, but if I can pick up and decorate the rest of the team along the way, that’s what I’ll do. I’m looking forward to working with Lewis in the upcoming campaign.”
Payne was also thrilled to make the move to South Wales: “I played against Newport last year, playing in front of the fans, on the pitch was a great experience.” Explained Payne.
“I’m really excited to get going and get amongst the lads.”
To sponsor Lewis Payne’s shirt for the upcoming season, please contact debra.henderson@newport-county.co.uk.