Newport County’s new forward Ged Garner says the vision and ambition shown by the club convinced him to make the move to Rodney Parade, and now he’s determined to repay that faith with goals, creativity and all-round effort.
The 26-year-old arrives with valuable EFL experience under his belt and is ready to make his mark in South Wales, having been impressed by conversations with both Chairman Huw Jenkins and Manager David Hughes.
“I was buzzing when I found out Newport were interested,” said Garner.
“I’ve been down here a few times before and always thought it was a really good place. After speaking to the chairman, and then the manager, it just felt like the perfect fit. The way they spoke about football matched how I see the game too.”
Garner is a technically gifted, hard-working forward who can play as a striker or in a slightly deeper role, and it’s that versatility and instinct in the final third that he hopes will bring added firepower to the County attack.
“I like to come short, get involved in play, and link things up. But I also pride myself on being a finisher. I want to score goals, create goals, and bring others into the game. That’s how I’ve always played.”
Having come through a strong football education and spent time across several clubs in the EFL, Garner believes those experiences have shaped him into a more rounded, mature player.
“I’ve had a few years in the game now and I’d like to think I’ve learned a lot along the way. Every club teaches you something, and I feel ready to bring that experience here and keep improving every day.”
It was his conversation with manager David Hughes that really sealed the move. Garner says he was struck not just by the footballing philosophy, but by the manager’s values around the club and his emphasis on daily development.
“We spoke about the way he wants to play and it just clicked straight away. It wasn’t just about tactics, it was his values and his approach to the game that stood out. I’m always trying to improve and learn, and he’s the same. That’s exactly what I was looking for.”
Looking ahead to the season, Garner’s focus is clear. Contribute as much as possible on the pitch, help the team push up the table, and embrace the ambition that’s evident throughout the club.
“Personally, I want to score and assist as many goals as I can. As a team, we want to finish as high as possible. After speaking to the chairman, it was clear that no one was happy with last season, and that gives us real motivation. There’s ambition here and I want to be part of that.”
And Garner is already looking forward to stepping out at Rodney Parade for the very first time as a Newport County player.
“I’ve been here as an away player and it’s always loud. The fans create a brilliant atmosphere, and I can’t wait to be on the other side of it now. Hopefully I can give them something to shout about.”