AFTER losing Dan Butler to Peterborough United, Newport County AFC have announced that Mark O’Brien has put pen to paper on a new two-year deal with the Exiles.

The Irishman captained Michael Flynn’s side for the majority of last season, including the League Two play-off final defeat by Tranmere Rovers.

His name will go down in County folklore for an 89th-minute winner against Notts County on the final day of the 2016-17 season.

It was a goal that completed the Great Escape, kept the Exiles in the Football League and probably saved the club from going out of existence altogether.

The 26-year-old added to his goal tally in amber during the past campaign, netting a brace to seal a crucial victory over Oldham Athletic which boosted County’s push for a play-off place.

“I’m delighted to extend my stay here in Newport for another two years,” he said.

“It was a shame not to clinch promotion on the weekend at Wembley in the play-off final, but I am already feeling confident for the upcoming season.

“I am grateful to the manager and the club who have once again put their faith in me by offering me this deal. Bring on the new season.”

After O’Brien signed his new deal, Flynn said: “I’m delighted that OB has signed terms for another two years at the club.

“He is a player that proved his quality last season, captaining us for the majority of the campaign and he is a player I am very happy is staying with the club.

“When he is fit he is a key member to our club and he has proved that over the last two years.”

O’Brien is the second County player after Josh Sheehan yesterday to commit their future to the club.