Shane McLoughlin: The defender returns, but Newport County have other doubts

McLoughlin’s return comes at the right time with Newport looking after midfielder Morris as scheduled. “He’s someone we’re trying to protect,” Jardim said.

And top scorer Wildig has persistent back problems. Both will be assessed on match day for their availability.

To add to Jardim’s concerns, an illness has hit the Newport dressing room and could potentially rule out players.

“It’s like a wave,” Jardim said. “We’ll have to see how today goes again. Tomorrow will be big and we’ll have to make decisions.”

He added ruefully, “Sooner or later we expect someone to catch something.”

While his squad’s depth may be tested, Jardim sees the prospect of absent players as an opportunity for someone else to escape the rigors of League Two and prove their worth in a competition where Newport have some notable giants committed massacres. results and financially lucrative draws.

Jardim said: “Everyone is ready, everyone is waiting for their chance, for their chance. It’s such a huge game for us, for the city, for the fans, for the club, my first ever game (as head coach) in the FA Cup.

“We are all looking forward to it, we will do our best as we always do and we are sure the fans will be with us.”