NEWPORT County AFC striker Shaun Jeffers has been backed to take his chance as he looks set to start in place of the suspended Chris Zebroski tomorrow.

Zebroski is banned for one match having notched up five yellow cards this season and Jeffers is expected to partner Aaron O’Connor up front as Stevenage visit Rodney Parade.

Jeffers scored the third goal after coming off the bench in County’s 3-2 win at Carlisle United and manager Justin Edinburgh is delighted with his form following a loan spell at Brackley Town.

“Zebroski picked up his fifth booking at Carlisle, which was the last game where it would have counted,” explained Edinburgh.

“It’s unfortunate but there’s an opening there for one of the strikers and Shaun Jeffers probably deserves that chance.

“We sat down with Shaun before the loan and explained to him that it was no punishment; it was all about his development.

“He had all the skills, all the tools but it’s about your game management, knowhow and application and he’s certainly benefited from going away and playing football matches.

“I’ve watched him since he’s come back and I’m really pleased with him.

“He got the winner at Carlisle and it put an extra spring in his step so all credit to him.”

It’s been all good news for Edinburgh this week with the early return to fitness of striker Rene Howe and a new contract being agreed with midfielder Mark Byrne.

“Rene comes into the squad,” said Edinburgh. “He played 40 minutes in the reserve match at Portsmouth on Tuesday and hasn’t had any problems.

“He’s trained with us this week and he’ll be in the squad, which is another big boost for us ahead of the Christmas fixture list. You can never have too many strikers.

“We certainly haven’t seen the best of Rene but we’re looking forward to getting him back on the pitch.”

Edinburgh is also happy to have signed up Byrne until the summer of 2016.

“I’m pleased for Mark and the club,” said the Exiles boss. “He deserves it. His performances forced our hand and I know that the fans will be delighted because he’s certainly become a fans’ favourite in his short time here.”