Newport County: ‘I am not just a big man’ says 6ft 9in Kyle Hudlin

There have been other footballers taller than Hudlin – German Simon Bloch Jorgensen was 6ft 10.5in – but you simply cannot miss the Newport front man in a crowd.

And rather like Kieffer Moore when he pulls on a Wales jersey, Hudlin’s height can make him a target for some rough treatment.

It is not unusual to see him being sandwiched between a defender and a deep lying midfielder when challenging for an aerial ball. And his shirt can occasionally be seen being tugged by opponents.

Much of this can go unpunished by referees. But Hudlin appears to take this in his lengthy stride.

“It’s frustrating, but I understand it comes with my stature. I understand the type of forward I am.

“It’s a very physical game and I base myself on being physical and expect it to be given back to me.

“There are some decisions I do question because I do think sometimes it turns into a rugby match more than a football match and I struggle to showcase my ability.

“But I also understand it’s very tough for officials and referees during the game when everything is 100 miles an hour. I take it as it comes.”

Hudlin’s current loan spell at Newport is due to end in January. But he has already said he would be “open” to staying beyond the new year.

Head coach Nelson Jardim has made no secret he would like to keep Hudlin for longer.

As they focus on the FA Cup game against Peterborough at Rodney Parade this Saturday, Newport are currently 14th in League Two on 19 points, 11 ahead of one-from-bottom Carlisle and three points off the play-offs.

Hudlin said: “There are going to be ups and downs throughout the season. I just feel like everyone’s game is developing loads and it’s about learning on the job.

“It’s about learning quick and fast, making sure every game and training session you are progressing as a person.”

Newport fans will hope Hudlin maintains his development as he continues to strive to be the complete footballer and stand tall in their League Two campaign.