Newport County Sign Former Swansea City Defender From League Two

Liam Shephard has rejoined Newport County following his departure from League Two rivals Salford City.

The defender, 30, made 52 appearances – scoring two goals – for the Exiles during the 2020-21 season prior to his switch to Salford.

The Swansea City academy product has signed a one-year contract at Rodney Parade.

“I’m absolutely buzzing to be here and get everything over the line,” said Shephard.

“The first thing I’m looking forward to is being able to play in front of the Newport County fans, because my first spell was during the Covid season, so I never really got to have that full experience of representing the club. So I’m really looking forward to that.”

On working under Newport boss David Hughes, Shephard commented: “We’ve had some really good discussions on how and where he wants me to play, and we share the same values and ambitions to try and take us forward.

“I’m not here just to play games, I’m always trying to push my ambitions and expectations as far as I can. So I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in and helping the squad progress.”

Former Wales Under-21 international Shephard – who can operate centrally and at right-back – joins Habeeb Ogunneye, Michael Reindorf, Ben Lloyd, Nik Tzanev, Jordan Wright, Lee Jenkins, Matt Smith and Ged Garner in making the move to Newport this summer.

Hughes said: “I’m delighted to welcome Liam into the squad. He’s vastly experienced, he’s an outstanding character and he’ll be an excellent addition into the changing room because of his professionalism and high standards.

“He definitely adds outstanding quality to the squad, so we’re really pleased to bring him in and to add more competition for places.”

Shephard’s father, Garry Shephard, scored 47 goals in 136 appearances for the Exiles between 1999 to 2005.

Meanwhile, Jacob Carney’s contract with the Exiles has been cancelled by mutual consent.

The 24-year-old former Manchester United goalkeeper – who made six appearances last season – has joined Northern Irish semi-professional side Glenavon in the NIFL Premiership.

“Newport County would like to wish Jacob good luck with his new challenge and thank him for his service,” a club statement read.