NEWPORT County AFC have made the first signing of their bid to push for promotion after their Wembley heartache by snapping up right-back Cameron Norman.

The 25-year-old defender heads to Rodney Parade on a two-year contract after two campaigns with League Two rivals Walsall.

County have moved to bolster their options down the right with both Liam Shephard and Aaron Lewis out of contract after sharing the duties down that flank in 2020/21.

Shephard, who finished the season on the right of the central three, has been offered a new deal while the club remains in talks with the versatile Lewis.

Ashley Baker has been released and manager Michael Flynn has moved quickly to bolster his defence, with the new man also able to play centrally.

Free Press Series: Cameron Norman in pursuit of Scott Twine last seasonCameron Norman in pursuit of Scott Twine last season

Norman said: "I'm really excited for the season to start now having spoken to the gaffer and looking at the goals and objectives for the season.

"I how we’re going to go about it and just really excited to get going.”

Norman, who faced County twice with the Saddlers last season, came through the ranks with Norwich City and played for Woking and Oxford before moving to the Bescot in January 2019.

He made 72 appearances for Walsall but is swapping the West Midlands for Wales.

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Flynn said: "It’s a huge signing for us and we’ve beaten off competition from elsewhere. He’s played in League One before, he’s a good age and committed to moving to the area.

"As soon as I spoke to him, I wanted to make it clear that he was my number one target, so I wanted to get over the line.

“I’m delighted that he’s chosen to play for Newport County AFC and he will add massive value to the football club."