KIERAN Parselle is determined to prove himself and return to the Football League a better player after leaving Newport County AFC.

The 20-year-old defender was one of eight players released by new County manager Michael Flynn on Tuesday.

And, after failing to make an appearance for the Exiles in the 2016-2017 season, the academy graduate is not surprised that he was let go.

“I kind of knew it was coming because I haven’t played,” said Parselle.

“I’m a bit disappointed that I didn’t get a game but with the position we were in I can understand it as well.

“It was a tough time for the club and they needed to go for experience.

“I’m looking at it as an opportunity – I’m 20 now and I need to be getting games under my belt and gaining experience to develop as a player.

“It’s probably the right thing for Newport and it could be a blessing in disguise for me.

“I don’t want to be hanging around, not playing and not developing.”

South Wales Argus:

Bristol-born Parselle did make 26 appearances on loan for Salisbury (above) in the Southern League between August and January.

“I had a great time at Salisbury under Steve Claridge and I want to be playing games regularly again,” he said.

“There have been a few calls and my agent is trying to sort something out as quickly as possible but at the moment it’s a waiting game so we’ll see what happens.”

Parselle says he has no hard feelings towards Flynn after his release.

“He just told me I needed to go out and prove myself,” the youngster revealed.

“He’s done an unbelievable job and we parted on good terms.

“I can’t thank Flynny, Byron Anthony, Danny Elliott and Wayne Hatswell enough for what they’ve done for me.

“And also Terry Butcher for giving me a chance when he was manager.

“He threw me in at the deep end at Wolves in the League Cup [in August 2015] against Benik Afobe and Nouha Dicko and it was a brilliant experience.

“There aren’t many players my age with seven Football League appearances and I hope to be add to that.”

Goalkeeper Marcus Beauchamp, defenders Liam Angel and Paul Bignot, midfielders Finlay Wood and Jack Compton and striker Tom Meechan were also told to find new clubs this week.

And veteran centre-back Darren Jones pre-empted the club’s announcement as he revealed his decision to retire from professional football.