Ex-Leeds United Coach Favourite For Role After Portuguese Manager Leave Club

Cameron Toshack has emerged as the early front-runner to become Newport County’s next head coach following the surprise departure of Nelson Jardim with just two games left in the season.

Toshack, son of former Wales boss John Toshack, and previously assistant manager at Leeds United, is widely tipped to make the move into full-time management. The 54-year-old has strong ties to Welsh football and experience within the Premier League 2 system—credentials that could make him a smart appointment for a club aiming to rebuild after a turbulent campaign.

While not yet listed with bookmakers, Toshack has quickly become a popular name among fans and pundits, particularly given his links to Swansea City and his track record working with young players. His network across top-tier academies could prove invaluable in attracting quality loanees to Rodney Parade—something vital for clubs operating under tight budgets in League Two.

Jardim Out By Mutual Consent

His possible appointment follows the shock announcement that Jardim has left Newport County by mutual consent. The Portuguese coach had only just secured the club’s League Two survival with a goalless draw against Walsall on Monday. With safety ensured, both Jardim and the board agreed that it was the right moment to part ways.

“I have known Nelson for 15 years and we have always been open and honest with each other,” said chairman Huw Jenkins. “He felt that it was best for him and the club to move on with just two games left and our league status now secure. I can’t thank Nelson enough for his hard work, commitment and loyalty, especially as he left his young family in Portugal to take on the role.”

Jardim’s tenure saw major changes at Newport, including a complete squad overhaul and a shift in club operations. Though the journey was challenging, his primary objective of keeping the Exiles in the EFL was met. The club now sits 20th in League Two, with matches against Fleetwood Town and Tranmere Rovers remaining.

Newport’s final-day clash with Tranmere could play a crucial role in the fate of Carlisle United, who are second from bottom and desperate to claw their way to safety. Carlisle visit Cheltenham this weekend, hoping to close the gap before their final showdown.

The Exiles are expected to announce a caretaker team imminently, but all eyes are now on whether Toshack will be officially thrown into the mix.

Writer’s View

Appointing Toshack would represent a bold but exciting move for Newport. He blends familiarity with Welsh football and a progressive coaching background—qualities the club could harness to push forward after a season of firefighting. With Jardim stabilising the ship, a forward-thinking coach like Toshack could be the one to finally chart a course for progress.