JAMILLE Matt will be back at Rodney Parade next season – after signing for Newport County AFC’s League Two rivals Forest Green Rovers.
The 30-year-old striker left the Exiles this summer after the coronavirus pandemic meant the club were not in a position to offer a fresh contract.
That has allowed Forest Green to bolster their front line with the forward, who made 97 appearances during two seasons in Wales.
“I’m delighted to sign for Forest Green and (head coach) Mark Cooper was the main factor on me signing,” he said.
“I have a lot of experience and I want to use this to help the team and match their ambition and desire to be successful.”
Matt formed a potent partnership with Padraig Amond and scored 20 goals in his first season in Wales, including the powerful header in the famous FA Cup win against Leicester when he climbed above Wes Morgan.
"Appreciate all the messages from the County fans," he later Tweeted. "Always were brilliant with me and wish you all best."
Cooper believes the forward will give Rovers, who finished 10th, three points above County, more of a cutting edge.
“He knows how to be successful at the level, not old in terms of years, but in games he is vastly experienced,” he said.
“Jamille brings a different weapon to our armoury. We have not had a focal point since Christian Doidge left. He can be a target man and gives you another option."
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