Match Preview / COUNTY CHIEF FUCHS BOOMS OUT A MANDATE FOR LEAGUE TWO REVIVAL, “TOTAL TRUST AND WATCHING EACH OTHER’S BACKS!”
Christian Fuchs trotted out a blueprint to haul his County warriors clear of any white water in the League Two dungeon barking, “Total trust and having each other’s back is the formula to get us out of danger.”
Fuchs, a swashbuckling left-back in a Leicester City cocktail that lifted the Premier League crown, defying odds under the Italian master tactician Claudio Ranieri just over nine years ago, is committed to hauling the Exiles off the floor of a section they have been nailed to for almost two months.
Crucial reward in their last two league games – against Barrow and the fighting 2-2 draw at promotion-chasing Crewe 48 hoars ago – was, in some people’s view. a pivotal moment in the season, a beacon of hope shining bright, showing the road ahead.
Fleetwood are the visitors to Rodney Parade tomorrow [15.00] and reviving County appear set to smash a 273-day hex, a dark period when the home faithful have not sipped the sweet nectar of a league victory.
Pete Wild’s Cod Army sit in mid-table, but are within only three points from the play-offs, because of strong form at Highbury Stadium. Their away record is in complete contrast, Fleetwood slumping five out of their last six trips, one point from the 18 available.
For Fuchs, though, it’s all about his troops, he said, “When I came to Newport I knew the players had good technical ability and were prepared to work hard with and off the ball. Just maybe, it was a confidence thing. When we went behind it did affect us.”
However, meticulous planner Fuchs showed rare emotion as he added, “At Crewe we showed huge resilience. The team stood tall, even though we went down to 10 men [after Courtney Baker-Richardson was sent off for two separate yellow cards after the hour]. Our numbers were reduced, but we still went after Crewe.
“The team are now showing they have lots to give and will fight on, regardless. We are starting to trust each other and are creating the feeling that every one has each other’s back.
“We spoke about the result at Crewe and have analysed my thoughts that any team has to earn the right to be on the pitch. Nothing comes served on a silver platter.
“It doesn’t matter how big or small a club is, you’ve always got a chance. Our mindset is changing, now we must continue this trend forward.”
County’s back four was outstanding at Crewe’s Mornflake Stadium – centre backs Lee Jenkins and 36-year-old skipper James Clarke marking his return to the side, with the vintage of an expensive French claret.
Addressed Fuchs, “All the lads fought hard, but if you don’t conceded you clearly don’t lose a game. I have asked for voices all over the pitch, each of my squad must have a responsibility.”
Coming into a festive schedule of six games in just 22 days, Newport have a full strength squad from which to select – that means Wales international midfielder Matt Smith and ex-Stoke defender Matt Baker come back into contention. Linkman Keenan Patten is still recovering from injury after a recent set back, target man Courtney Baker-Richardson is suspended after his dismissal at Crewe.
Fleetwood are expected to include Wales cap and former Sheffield United marksman Ched Evans in their hand – the visitors attack likely to be initially led by ex-Forest Green hit man James Norwood – now 35, the raider could make his 595th pro appearance will seek a 124th career strike.
The Cod Army hold no fear for Fuchs, though, who roared, “We must build on what we have achieved of late. We must fight for the second ball against Fleetwood. It won’t be easy, but we have set a higher bar and must not fall bellow it.”
Fuchs piled praise on the 150-strong Amber Army who made the trip to Crewe, saying, “All credit to the fans. They never stopped believing in us during the game and kept throwing their support behind us, even when the odds were against that.
“At Rodney Parade they have been magnificent too – we need them, they’re our 12th man.”
