‘In Jenkins we trust’ – Newport season preview

Frankly, it’s anyone’s guess, but the elements need to gel quickly.

Under Jenkins, Newport have not just embarked upon an overhaul of manpower, a familiar process for lower division clubs.

The Jenkins method involves a different the style of play, with an emphasis on passing and building from the back. Done well, it’s great to watch, but it takes time to perfect and defensively can bring its own problems.

Newport have lost vast on-field knowhow with longest serving player Scot Bennett and striker Omar Bogle gone. Their new recruits significantly reduce the average age of the squad, but they must adapt to the demands of League Two quickly.

This is the Jenkins strategy to develop young talent who can affect the team, sell them for a good price and ensure the profit strengthens the entire club. Hence the need for patience.

The sale of last season’s top scorer Evans was not unexpected. Whether some of the proceeds will be spent before the deadline remains to be seen. The return of Baker-Richardson looks adroit.

Midfielder Aaron Wildig will surely thrive under the new style, Bryn Morris remains a key figure and the permanent return of Wales under-21 utility player Matt Baker brings versatility. Left-back Anthony Glennon has impressed in pre-season while Cameron Atwi, signed from Cardiff, has undoubted flair.

But it’s a tough ask for Jardim in his first managerial post. He will need all the knowledge gleaned from working under former Swansea bosses Paulo Sousa, Carlos Carvalhal, Paul Clement and Francesco Guidolin, along with Aitor Karanka at Birmingham.

Arguably, Jenkins’ greatest skill at Swansea was his ability to pick suitable coaches to create a brand dubbed the ‘Swansea way’, which he is trying to emulate here.

The launch of Roberto Martinez’ managerial career, seven years in the Premier League and Swansea’s struggles since is testimony to Jenkins’ track record.

Newport fans have put their trust in Jenkins, hoping he has not lost the Midas Touch.