NEWPORT County AFC midfielder Mark Byrne will be rewarded for his impressive start to the season with a new contract.

The Irish star is currently only tied to the club until January after arriving at Rodney Parade late in pre-season once most of the playing budget had been used up.

But Byrne has made himself a regular in the side since August and has been instrumental in the Exiles’ recent upturn in form.

The 25-year-old returns from a one-match ban for tomorrow’s trip to Dagenham & Redbridge and he expects to seal a new deal soon.

“We’ve spoken about it and the manager has said he wants to keep me around,” said Byrne.

“That’s great to hear. I’m enjoying it here and I think I’ve settled in well.

“I knew the manager before I came and I knew some of the players as well.

“It’s a great bunch of lads here and they’ve made me feel at home so I’m enjoying my football at the minute.”

Exiles boss Justin Edinburgh says the deal should be done shortly and he’s delighted with the former Barnet man’s impact.

“I don’t foresee it being a problem,” said Edinburgh.

“I spoke to the directors and the chairman and we want to conclude the deal; we’re talking days rather than weeks before that’s done.

“The level of his performances have been outstanding and we’d certainly want to keep him until the end of the season and beyond.”

Byrne and captain Andy Sandell both return from suspension this weekend but Edinburgh will be without Robbie Willmott (foot) and Ryan Jackson (hamstring).

That could mean a move to right wing-back for either Yan Klukowski or James Loveridge.

“It’s not their ideal position but Yan and James are both good enough to play that role,” said Edinburgh.

“And Yan has played there before so it may suit him more than James.”

In central midfield Adam Chapman (ankle) could return but Max Porter and Mike Flynn are not yet ready to start, according to the manager.

Meanwhile, County goalkeeper Jamie Stephens is set to move to Conference North club Gloucester City once he receives international clearance.

His proposed move to Brackley Town fell through because of a delay in receiving international clearance from FIFA.

“We’re hoping that will go through and he can go and play with (former County director of football) Tim Harris for a month,” added Edinburgh.

“He certainly needs games now and that will be beneficial for Jamie and ourselves.

“I know he’s looking forward to it and so are we so we can get him back playing.”