FORMER captain David Pipe has rejoined Newport County AFC on loan from Eastleigh until the end of the season.

County confirmed the move this evening after Eastleigh boss Martin Allen told a press conference this morning that the 33-year-old was heading back to Newport.

“We had a phone call for Pipey to go on loan to Newport, which is just around the corner from his house, so he’s gone on loan now to Newport through to the end of the season," said Allen.

“He’s been brilliant since I’ve been here, helping me, and he’s a great lad.

“We’re going to miss him but we’ve brought players in that can play in those positions, so I thought that was worthwhile.”

Pipe, who returns ahead of Saturday's League Two game at Stevenage, led the Exiles to promotion to the Football League in 2013 before being released the following year.

The former Wales international, who can play at right-back or in midfield, spent two seasons at Forest Green Rovers before joining Eastleigh last year.

Exiles manager Graham Westley added: "David is a seasoned pro, a club stalwart, and an experienced leader with a passion to re-establish Newport County as a respected League Two outfit.

"We need to start making a serious mark and he brings the character and resilience that we need right now."

Pipe was originally signed by County in 2011, making more than 100 appearances for the club.

He was also inducted into the Newport County AFC Hall of Fame in 2015.