James Crole joined Newport County in January 2026 on a two-and-a-half-year contract from Penybont, making the move to Rodney Parade after establishing himself as one of the most prolific young forwards in the Cymru Premier.

Born on February 22, 2004 in Bridgend, Wales, Crole began his footballing journey with Newport County's academy before joining Cardiff City's academy at under-14 level. He progressed through the Cardiff City system and made his senior debut in a Carabao Cup tie against Blackburn Rovers in September 2022. He also gained experience on loan with Torquay United and Queen's Park.

Crole joined Penybont in 2024 following his release by Cardiff City and quickly established himself as a prolific goalscorer in the Cymru Premier. He scored 16 goals during the 2024-25 campaign, finishing as joint top scorer in the division and winning the Cymru Premier Golden Boot.

His form continued into the first half of the 2025-26 season, with Crole scoring 11 goals in 17 Cymru Premier appearances for Penybont before his move to Newport County. Across his time with the club, he scored 27 goals in 48 league appearances.

Crole made his Newport County debut on January 17, 2026, coming off the bench against Gillingham. He quickly became an important attacking option during the second half of the campaign, combining his physical presence with intelligent movement and an ability to bring teammates into play.

During the remainder of the 2025-26 season, Crole made 20 League Two appearances, including 11 starts, playing 1,058 minutes. He scored one goal and registered four assists, giving him five goal involvements during his first half-season in the EFL. His first Newport County goal came in the 2-1 victory over Barnet on March 14.

Crole finished the season strongly, providing an assist in Newport County's final-day 2-1 victory away at Barrow, a result which brought the campaign to a winning conclusion.

Standing at over six feet tall, Crole provides a physical presence in attack while also possessing the technical ability and movement to operate across the forward line. His goalscoring record in Welsh football, combined with his four assists during his first League Two campaign, highlights his potential as he continues to adapt to the EFL.

Now 22, Crole enters the 2026-27 season looking to build on his first six months at Rodney Parade and continue his development as a Newport County forward.

Primary sponsor | Southern Ground Testing

Alternative sponsor | County Nostalgia Group