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Newport looking to win on home turf against Middlesbrough

5 February 2019

Newport County will be looking to reach the Fifth Round of the FA Cup for just the second time in their history when they host Championship side Middlesbrough this evening.

The Exiles scored late on in the reverse fixture to force tonight’s replay where a win will see them welcome European giants Man City to Rodney Parade.

County winger Keanu Marsh-Brown said “It’s a huge game for the club. I’ve played in a play-off final at Wembley, but for me this is bigger.

“We won’t be thinking about Man City in the next round, because we have a strong Boro side to get past first before that becomes a possibility.

“It’s a really big deal for the fans as well, being able to have these sort of clubs playing on your doorstep is what being a football fan is all about.”

Newport goalkeeper Joe Day is making a return after missing the first tie with his wife expecting twins.

Padraig Amond, Mark O’Brien and Dan Butler were all on the bench for Saturday’s 3-0 defeat against Grimsby.

They are set to return tonight.

Middlesbrough manager, Tony Pulis, who returns to his boyhood club, is switching his team around for his side’s forth game in 12 days.

Lewis Wing looks unlikely to play due to recently suffering from a groin injury.

A fifth-round tie against Manchester City could result from this game.

Newport manager, Michael Flynn says “I am not thinking about Man City one bit, not a chance.

“This could end up like Bullseye – Bully’s special prize, look what you could have won.

“I have too much respect for Tony Pulis, too much respect for Middlesbrough Football Club, and that is all I’m thinking about”.

Newport County have lost in all three previous meetings with Middlesbrough but fans hope tonight will be different.

 

 

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