Newport County forward James Crole is determined to continue his growing impact as the club prepares for a crucial League Two encounter with Crawley Town at Rodney Parade on Good Friday.
The 22-year-old has begun to find his stride in recent weeks, contributing a goal and two assists as Newport County looks to build momentum at a vital stage of the season. After making the step up to the EFL, Crole admitted the transition required patience and adjustment.
“At the start it was a bit of a shock, coming back into full-time. There was a greater intensity,” he said. “The last few games I’ve got myself back in the team. I am enjoying things a lot more now.”
Crole’s recent progress has come after working closely with head coach Christian Fuchs, who has helped guide his development and refine key areas of his game.
“I spoke to him when I wasn’t playing as much. He explained the things I needed to do and improve on,” Crole added. “I’ve taken that on board and I’ve done the things he told me about. My running stats have been a lot better and I’ve received good feedback.”
Having previously spent time at the club during his younger years, Crole says joining Newport County was always a natural move, particularly given the challenge facing the team.
“Newport was my first choice. I just wanted to come in and help get us out of the position we’re in,” he explained.
The forward also reflected on his first EFL goal, which proved to be the winner away at Barnet, describing it as a special moment in front of the travelling support.
“It was a great moment in front of our fans, basically a perfect moment when I scored the winner. It was an important three points.”
Attention now turns to Friday’s clash with Crawley Town, with both sides battling for valuable points. Crole expects a competitive encounter and emphasised the importance of Newport County’s approach.
“It’s a very big game. The win last week has put us in very good stead,” he said. “We’ve gone back to basics, making things more of a scrap, with grit and determination.”
Rodney Parade will once again play a key role, with Crole highlighting the impact of the supporters in recent performances.
“The fans have been great, our 12th man,” he said. “We’ll be aggressive, we’ll fight and earn our way into the game.”
With confidence building and the squad united, Crole believes Newport County has what it takes to continue its upward trajectory.
“Everyone is buzzing. The feel around the dressing room has been good,” he added. “We believe we can get out of the position we are in. It’s down to us to play as we know we can.”
Newport County will be aiming to take another significant step forward on Good Friday, with the Amber Army set to play their part at Rodney Parade.
