NEWPORT County AFC star Robbie Willmott says the players understand that speculation about manager Justin Edinburgh moving on is inevitable.

Willmott is set to return to the squad for Saturday’s clash with Shrewsbury Town after more than three months on the sidelines due to injury.

During his absence County rose to third in League Two but since Edinburgh was linked to the Gillingham job earlier this month they have lost 4-0 at Cambridge United and 3-0 at Northampton Town.

Edinburgh has now admitted that the players were affected by the rumours but Willmott accepts that the situation goes hand in hand with success and is hopeful that the manager signs a new contract shortly.

“Speculation is always going to come with the gaffer because he’s done such a great job since he’s been here but the new contract will give everyone a big boost,” said the 24-year-old, who is also hoping to catch the eye of bigger clubs.

“I was devastated when I got the injury because I was on a good run of games and I was probably playing the most consistent football of my career.

“So to be told my season was going to be cut short was tough,” he added.

“I’m no different from any other player; I want to be playing at the highest level possible and for me to do that I need to be playing every week.

“I want to be attracting attention and catching the eye of other clubs so for me to be told I could be out for season I couldn’t believe it.

“I got told three to five months originally and then after the scan I was told six months but the operation was a success and I did everything they asked me to.

“Then when I had the check-up with the surgeon just before Christmas he said I’d be back in six weeks.

“A week later I was back in the gym and working with the medical staff and I’m way ahead of schedule.”

And, despite recent results, Willmott believes the Exiles are still a good bet for promotion this season.

“I think there’s no reason why we can’t stay where we are,” he said.

“We’ve got a good manager and enough good players to get us out of this league.

“Last season it was the big three teams who got promoted but it’s a lot more open this season.

“We’ve lost two games but we’re still five points above eighth so I think we’ve got a very good chance.”