NEWPORT County AFC captain Mark Byrne has had a busy summer with the arrival of his first baby and he believes the born-again Exiles can upset the odds in League Two this season.

Byrne and girlfriend Sarah welcomed baby daughter Halle into the world last month and the 26-year-old Dubliner is on a high as he prepares to lead County into the new season.

Terry Butcher’s side are amongst the favourites for relegation with the bookies but Byrne is certain that the new-look squad can surprise a few people, starting at Cambridge United tomorrow.

“We want to get a win,” said the new skipper, one of only five senior players to remain at Rodney Parade this summer with 15 departures and 11 new arrivals to date.

“Cambridge have thrown a bit of money at it this season and we’re going in as the underdogs.

“They think they’re going to run us over but we’ll give them a surprise.

“A lot of people are writing us off already because of what’s gone on but I think we’re going to surprise a few teams this year.”

Byrne believes the appointment of Butcher can provide some stability at the club after the departure of previous manager Justin Edinburgh and chairman Les Scadding.

“Towards the end of the season we weren’t consistent enough and we had a lot of changes, thinking about managers coming in,” he said.

“After Justin left Jimmy [Dack] did a good job but we had no stability and we needed a permanent manager who looks long-term.

“Terry is a good manager and I’m looking forward to working with him throughout the season.”

Byrne admits the dramatic overhaul of the squad made for a strange summer but he’s confident in the ability of the new arrivals and his leadership skills.

“The first day of pre-season was like the first day of school but the lads have all settled in well and we’re a tight unit now,” he said.

“I think Lennel John-Lewis is going to score a lot of goals for us.

“He’s a big strong lad and I think that’s what we missed towards the end of last season. We needed a player like that.

“And we’ve got Scott Boden as well so we’re looking forward to a good season.

“I’m delighted to be named captain,” he added.

“I am vocal on the pitch but I try and lead by example. I try to put a performance in and hopefully the team can follow what I do.”

And, asked for a message for the fans, Byrne said: “We want them to be vocal and get behind the team. You know you’re going to get 100 per cent from the team but be patient. It is a new team but we want everyone to get behind the team from the start.”