TOM Owen-Evans says best friend Regan Poole’s move to Manchester United is an inspiration to every Newport County AFC youngster dreaming of making it to the top.

Poole signed for the Premier League giants on Tuesday and Owen-Evans, who made his first senior start for County hours later, says the news has excited everyone at Rodney Parade.

And for him, Kieran Parselle and Aaron Collins it shows what is possible if they continue to shine for the Exiles.

“Everyone is buzzing for Regan – me, Kieran and Azza especially,” said Owen-Evans.

“It’s not really sunk in yet, obviously we knew there was all the interest but it’s incredible.

“I’m an Arsenal fan but I might have to go and watch a Man United game now!

“He’s my best mate really and I’m sure he’ll go all the way,” he added. “He’s a great player and I think he deserves it.

“He’s a centre-back and he can defend but technically he’s unbelievable.

“You don’t really see centre-backs that are that good on the ball in League Two.

“It gives us great confidence and makes us want to follow in his footsteps.”

County this week turned down several offers from Burnley for Collins, who scored his second goal of the season before missing from the spot as Swindon Town won Tuesday’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy tie on penalties.

“No one was really bothered about going out; we were all trying to pick Azza’s head up because he was the one who got us to penalties in the first place,” said Owen-Evans.

“I think that’s why the gaffer has kept him – because he’s a vital part of the team.

“They didn’t get the offer they wanted for him and they wanted him to stay.

“He’s scored two goals already and he’s only 18 so I think he can follow in Regan’s footsteps.”

Owen-Evans is aiming to force his way into a more prominent role after impressing against Swindon and converting his penalty in the shootout.

“I’ve got my first start and it’s something for me to build on and I’m just focusing on that,” he said.

“I enjoyed it. It’s brilliant for me, just turning 18 and making my first start. It’s all I could ask for, really.

“The gaffer has given me the opportunity in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy and I thought I did well.

“That’s all I can do. Hopefully I impressed and I can play in the next game.

“The way we’re looking at it is we drew the game 1-1 against a very good Swindon team who are in the league above us,” he added.

“We’re looking at it as a draw rather than a loss and it’s something to build on against York on Saturday.”