DEFENDER Andrew Hughes has agreed a new one-year deal to remain at Newport County AFC, says manager Terry Butcher.

The 23-year-old has not played since suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Stevenage last December.

But Butcher says Hughes could be fit to return by October and he's delighted to keep him at Rodney Parade.

"Andrew has agreed to sign a new one-year deal," said the Exiles boss.

"I spoke to him when I took over and told him I wanted him to be a Newport County player when he returned to fitness and I'm very pleased that he will be.

"He still needs to finish rehab but he will reach the nine-month point in September and he is chomping at the bit to get back playing.

"A lot of people were looking at him before the injury and he's still only 23. He has a great future and he will be like a new signing when he is fit."