Cameron Norman spoke to the media ahead of Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two fixture against York City at Rodney Parade, discussing County’s positive run of form, the importance of home advantage and the togetherness within the squad.
Norman reflected on County’s recent performances and the confidence growing within the squad.
“We’re on a really good run. We’re not getting ahead of ourselves too early, but we’ve built on our home form, which has allowed us to go into away games with confidence as well.”
The defender highlighted the hunger and unity within the changing room as key factors behind the team’s progress.
“What’s good about the changing room is that we’ve got a real blend of players, but the core of that blend is a hunger to do well. I’ve still got the hunger to play games and win games of football at this level.”
Looking at the season ahead, Norman explained why the squad is focused on taking each fixture as it comes.
“We want to have a positive season, but we don’t really put too many labels on where we want to be or what we want to achieve. We’re taking it one game at a time.”
Having experienced previous seasons battling near the bottom of the table, Norman emphasised the squad’s determination to continue moving forward.
“We don’t expect to be down there, and we don’t want to be down there. We want to be where we are now and strive to move further up the table.”
Norman also praised the atmosphere at Rodney Parade, crediting the supporters and the team’s performances for the positive feeling around the club.
“This season seems to have taken things up another step. The atmosphere has been really good, and obviously it helps when we’re putting in the performances and getting the results.”
Reflecting on his development since leaving Newport in 2021, Norman spoke about the experience he has gained and his role in supporting the club’s younger players.
“I feel more rounded and more experienced as a player. It’s been good to help the younger boys and give them pointers here and there.”
The full-back discussed the different qualities within Hayden Mullins’ leadership group and how its members help maintain standards throughout the squad.
“The boys you mentioned have been great. We probably all have different approaches, whether that’s speaking to the younger boys or driving standards in training.”
Norman expressed his appreciation for the trust placed in him by the manager and his enjoyment of taking on greater responsibility.
“I’m really grateful that the gaffer has instilled that trust in me and the other boys. I love being part of the leadership group, and it’s a role I’d love to have in the future.”
Despite his ambitions for the future, the defender stressed that his immediate priority remains helping County build on their current progress.
“I want to play as high as I can for as long as I can, to be honest. My main focus is on Newport this season and continuing the progress we’re making.”
Turning his attention to Saturday’s meeting with York City, Norman made it clear that County will be looking to take the initiative on home soil.
“Whoever we’re playing, especially at home, it’s a game we’ll be looking to attack and put our stamp on. It’s a game we’re looking forward to, especially at home, and one we’ll be looking to win.”
Norman also explained his motivation for returning to Rodney Parade, highlighting his desire to help the club improve after recent difficult campaigns.
“I was also keen to help turn around the club’s fortunes after the last couple of seasons, so I’m really happy I made that decision.”
Comparing the current side with previous successful Newport County teams, Norman pointed to the attacking intent and emerging talent within the squad.
“What you’ve seen this season, especially at home, is a team that’s really willing to make the opposition defend. The boys are really enjoying it, and we’ve got some young players with amazing talent.”
He further underlined the importance of maintaining strong home performances throughout the campaign.
“Everybody knows home form is massive. It seems as though that’s your advantage every other week, and Rodney Parade is huge for us.”
Norman concluded by praising the supporters and the shared values between the fanbase and the manager.
“It’s a great fan base, and we love playing in front of them. There are certain values that mean a lot to them, and they’re the same values that mean a lot to the gaffer. I think that’s a good match at the moment.”