ROBBIE Willmott has returned to action after three and a half months on the sidelines to give Newport County AFC a huge fitness boost ahead of Saturday’s home clash with promotion rivals Shrewsbury Town.

The left wing-back started his first match since October and played 60 minutes in County’s Final Third Development League fixture at Plymouth Argyle this afternoon, even surviving a bad tackle from behind by Pilgrims winger Nathan Thomas in the first half.

Willmott suffered a serious foot injury against York City on October 11 and it was initially feared that his season could be over.

But an operation to repair the damage proved successful and the 24-year-old has returned to fitness much quicker than expected.

Manager Justin Edinburgh revealed just before Christmas that the player would be fit to return in February.

“Robbie saw a specialist this week and we’ve been given a massive boost as he was told he could be back in six weeks,” said the Exiles boss on December 23.

“Robbie had to have some bone removed from the foot but he’s obviously a very good healer and he’s well ahead of schedule.

“He’s a naturally fit boy and he’s back with us now so we’re all delighted that he’s going to get a few months of football before the end of the season.

“He was our best player prior to the injury he picked up against York. It seems a long way away and I’m sure it does to Robbie and we can’t wait to get him back playing.”

Willmott was joined in the Exiles’ starting XI by out of favour goalkeeper Lenny Pidgeley and fellow first team squad members Max Porter, Mike Flynn, Regan Poole, Yan Klukowski, Rene Howe and Joe Parker.

Academy stars Aidan O’Kelly, Kieran Parselle and Aaron Collins also started at Home Park.

Howe opened the scoring with a header past former County goalkeeper James Bittner on 21 minutes but Marvin Morgan levelled for the hosts just before the break.

Howe and Klukowski both hit the post in the second half and Bittner saved well from Collins and Parker but a second goal from Morgan nine minutes from time sealed the win for Argyle.

The Pilgrims' squad for the match was a mix of professionals – including Morgan, Jason Banton, Nathan Thomas and new recruit Ryan Brunt – and apprentices.

County had previously topped the group after last week’s 3-1 victory over Cheltenham Town.

There is no age restriction on the competition, although the primary focus is on players under the age of 21.