Joss Labadie has been declared fit for Newport County’s play-off final against Tranmere Rovers at Wembley on Saturday.
The influential midfielder limped off during County’s semi-final second leg win at Mansfield and was considered a doubt for the tie that could propel the club into League One.
But manager Michael Flynn has insisted his former skipper – who missed 10 games before the play-offs through an ankle injury – is available.
“Joss is fine,” said Flynn. “There was nothing wrong with him. It was just cramp. He’s been training very well so he’s okay.”
The news is a significant boost for Flynn, who may look to add Labadie’s extra bite in midfield for what the manager believes could provide his greatest achievement in two-and-a-half years at the club.
Two seasons ago, Flynn kept Newport from falling out of the Football League after masterminding an incredible escape in their final sequence of matches of the campaign.
At the time, he rebuked those who viewed that accomplishment as some kind of success and his attitude has not altered.
“It (promotion) would be the best achievement for me,” he added. “I’m not one to celebrate failure, which we did when we got out of relegation with the great escape. I never want to be in that position again.
“I always want to look forward and a promotion on your CV is huge, especially when you are only two-and-a-half-years in to your career. What will be will be on Saturday, but we’ve covered all bases.”
Newport have spent the past week training at the Cardiff City Stadium as their own facility was unavailable and Flynn has paid thanks to his near neighbours.
“Preparation has gone really well, it’s a fantastic facility at Cardiff City, and I would like to thank Cardiff, Ken Choo and Neil Warnock for helping us out.
“It’s good to have those people who support you and are willing to help you out, especially when you need it.”
