Nelson Jardim has hailed the development of Joe Thomas, saying the young full-back should be "proud" of how he’s seized his opportunity in the Football League so far.
The 23-year-old has been one of the bright sparks in what’s been a challenging season for the Exiles, becoming a regular in the starting XI since the turn of the year.
Thomas, who struggled with ankle issues during pre-season, made his debut for County off the bench against Notts County in late November. Since then, he has made 19 appearances, starting 15 of the last 16 games.
In February, he marked a milestone by scoring his first-ever EFL goal against Morecambe in the 2-1 win at Rodney Parade.
And Jardim has challenged him to add more attacking flair to his game as the season run-in continues.
“Joe has been a real positive for us this season—and a big one,” said the Portuguese. “He’s taken his chance and should be proud of what he’s achieved.
“I like his composure, the way that he reads the game and how he takes good decisions.
“He knows that he has a lot of areas to improve and I would like to see him crossing more often; he is crossing once or twice a game when there could be seven or eight.
“I’d also like to see him make more runs but that will come in time. We have to understand that it’s his first year in the Football League and he has to be proud of what he has done.”