Recovery key for Newport County after Peterborough FA Cup defeat

Nelson Jardim admits his Newport County side must make full use of the coming week to recover after being knocked out of the FA Cup by Peterborough United.

Aaron Wildig, Bryn Morris and James Clarke were all notable absentees for the Exiles’ first round meeting with Darren Ferguson’s side at Rodney Parade.

“We struggled with a few injuries or knocks,” Jardim said.

“There was also a bit of illness around the team. That’s why (Aaron) Wildig didn’t play, Bryn (Morris) and a few others. Even Bobby (Kamwa), three days ago, wasn’t well.

“Now it’s about recovery, but also about what areas we can improve. I think that’s the key.”

Newport looked on course for an upset after early goals from Anthony Glennon and Kai Whitmore put them 2-0 ahead after just seven minutes.

But the visitors hit back in style as Abraham Odoh and Joel Randall scored ahead of a late Ricky-Jade Jones brace as Posh survived a South Wales scare.

Shane McLoughlin was an unused substitute for the hosts after making his long-awaited return to a matchday squad following a two-month absence with a knee injury.

But Jardim revealed the defender was not back in the spotlight against League One Peterborough given his long spell away.

“We had a report from the medical side that he could only be ready for a maximum of 20 minutes, so you’re not going to risk him and potentially lose him for the next games,” Jardim added.

Newport return to League Two action against Tranmere Rovers on Saturday (15:00 GMT).