Hayden Mullins spoke to the media ahead of Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two test against Colchester United at Rodney Parade, discussing squad fitness, competition for places and the importance of turning draws into wins.
Hayden Mullins believes Newport County can take plenty of positives from their performance against Plymouth Argyle, despite losing on penalties in the Jersey Mike’s Subs Trophy.
“We were very good in the first half. The way we set up out of possession, the way we stopped them and imposed our game on them was very good. We pushed them all the way, and I think they knew they were in a tough game.”
Mullins also highlighted the growing competition within his squad, praising the players who stepped up during Tuesday night’s performance.
“The lads who played on Tuesday are definitely pushing the boys who started against Gillingham. We've got competition in most areas of the pitch now, which is really good. We've got a real good group that are challenging each other.”
The County boss discussed the organisation and mentality behind his side’s recent defensive performances.
“I think organisation and hard work. We've got really good experience, good legs, good athleticism and tough tacklers. We wanted to be a tough team to break down and a tough team to overcome. We've started that pretty well in the first block of the season and we need to carry it on.”
Mullins welcomed the return of players following the international break, while acknowledging the competition for places within the squad.
“It's good. Tan's last game for us was the Swindon game, and he did very well. Any number of the lads have really staked a claim in my mind to be able to play. We've still got a few others to come back into the group as well, so they feel like new signings and hopefully give us that little bit of a push that we need to kick on.”
The County manager provided an update on the illness that affected several players in recent days.
“We've had a bit of a bug going through the group. We just didn't want it spreading, really. Everyone was back in and everyone trained today. The whole group was out there, so it was good to see. It's just seeing how they are now for Friday and seeing what they look like for the weekend.”
Mullins also shared updates on several players working towards a return to action.
“Kian, I think potentially would be back on the grass with us next week, which would be good for us. Kroall's on the grass as well, doing a little bit of light stuff. Tom Davies is back training with the group. He's not 100 per cent right, but he's back in with the group, which is really good.”
He added that Harrison Pugh and Mo were still nursing injuries and had not been training.
With County unbeaten in four league matches, Mullins stressed the importance of maintaining their current performances.
“I'm happy with the group and where they are and how they're performing. I've got no doubt if we perform the way we have been, we will turn those draws into positive results and wins. Just focusing on us, really, and what we've been doing from the beginning of the season is the key thing.” Mullins on facing Colchester United
Looking ahead to Saturday’s fixture at Rodney Parade, Mullins expects a difficult test against Colchester United.
“I think the managers are vastly experienced. They've been with the group for a long time now, and they'll probably have the group exactly where they want it. It's a very competitive league, and we're expecting a tough game, but we'll be set up in the right way to hopefully get a positive result.”
Mullins believes visiting sides will recognise the challenge of playing at Rodney Parade, but insists County must continue to deliver strong performances.
“I think teams will expect a tough game. It's down to us to continue to play the way we play at home, to be attacking and aggressive and to give them that tough game. Our own place is a tough place to come to.”
The County boss also responded to Matty Jacob’s comments about the team beginning to believe in what they can achieve this season.
“I think when the team go away to places like Gillingham and they only concede one shot on target, it gives them confidence. This division is open for anyone to put a run together. Why can't it be us? We want to focus on ourselves and what we're going to do with the game and what our game plan looks like.”
Mullins provided a final update on Joe Thomas after the full-back suffered a dead leg during the recent fixture.
“JT was out jogging around today. He had a bit of a dead leg issue at half-time, so he had to come off. Today he was outside jogging, so JT looks like he'll probably be back in training. If not tomorrow, then it'll be very soon.”