Ian Buckman believes the return of defender Jon Holmes from injury will help get Newport IoW back on their feet in the Ryman Division 1.

Utility man Buckman has left the Islanders to join FA Vase winners Winchester City, but a part of his heart will always be at St George's Park.

Buckman, who stepped in as caretaker manager for a short spell during the dark days of last season, said: "Newport have had a difficult start, but a lot of players haven't been available. Jon Holmes is on his way back now and I'm sure he'll help get them on an even keel again. They've got plenty of players capable of holding their own in that league, it's just a case of gelling them together. I'm hoping they'll be okay."

Much as he will miss Buckman, Newport boss John Linington fully understands his reasons for leaving.

He said: "You can't knock Bucko for going. He's doing it for the right reasons. One or two over here aren't happy about it, but the club can't afford to keep a quality player like that. And people shouldn't forget that he gave up a lot of his time to help keep the club going last season.

"My only reservation is that he's too good for the Wessex League. He should have gone up a level rather than down. He could have done a good job for Bognor in the Conference South, but he's taken the easy option."

Holmes played 20 minutes of Wednesday's 5-0 defeat at Burgess Hill and should be fully fit within a fortnight. Latvian Dainis Laizans also made a brief comeback from ankle trouble and Adam Barsdell (hamstring) and Justin Hughes (groin) should be fit to return at home to fellow strugglers Whyteleafe tomorrow. Veteran keeper John Simpkins makes way for Joe McCormack, who was unavailable for Burgess Hill.