ANDREW Crofts says team spirit is the key to Newport County AFC challenging for promotion in the 2018-2019 season.

The Wales international midfielder wants to make a “massive impact” at County after signing a one-year contract on Tuesday.

Crofts knows exactly what it takes to win promotion having helped Norwich City to reach the Premier League in 2011 and he is positive about the Exiles’ prospects in League Two.

“I know what a tight-knit group this squad are and I can’t wait to meet them,” he told iFollow Exiles ahead of the start of pre-season training today.

“Team spirit is massive and so is developing that momentum so that winning games becomes a habit.

“When you consider what the club achieved last year and the year before, when the gaffer took over and kept Newport up, that was unreal and that’s the momentum you need.

"Hopefully I can add to that and we can go one better than the team managed last season.

“Obviously quality is important, but having that team spirit, that never say die attitude makes the difference.

“I’ve been lucky enough to be involved in a few promotions and there’s nothing better than being promoted.”

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Crofts has won 29 caps for Wales with his last appearance for the national team coming in Chris Coleman’s final match as manager against Panama last November.

The 34-year-old hopes his experience at international level and higher up the league pyramid will be a big asset for County.

“I like to think I’m an all action midfielder,” he said. “I like to get up and down but I can hold as well.

“Obviously I’m an experienced player and I like to get involved with helping the youngsters out and leading the boys both on and off the pitch.

“I want to have a massive impact at Newport County AFC,” he added.

“I want to help build on what they did last season and I’m sure every player says that but we need to believe that we can do it.

“The gaffer’s bringing in players that I think will make a big difference and are adding to what was a very good team last season.

“Out on the pitch, it’s about giving everything we’ve got and putting some results together. If we build that momentum we’ll see where that takes us.”

Crofts is also relishing the prospect of reuniting with Exiles boss Michael Flynn – a former teammate at Gillingham.

“I’m really excited to sign for Newport County AFC,” he added.

“I’ve been speaking to the gaffer for a couple of weeks now and as soon as we started talking, I was really interested in signing for this club.

“I played with Michael Flynn at Gillingham and he was a winner. I loved playing with him and I can’t wait to play for him now with him being my gaffer.

“He’s a winner, I’m a winner and as soon as I knew Flynny was interested, it was something that really appealed to me and with the Welsh connection as well, I can’t wait to get going.”