Barnet (likely 4‑3‑3)
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Goalkeeper: Owen Evans
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Defence: Kane Smith (RB), Collinge (captain, CB), Okimo, Ryan Galvin (LB)
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Midfield: Scott High, Anthony Hartigan, Dennis Adeniran
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Attack: Rhys Browne, Joe Hugill (on loan from Manchester United), Idris Kanu
Key Contributors:
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Joe Hugill: Manchester United youth prospect, expected to lead Barnet’s attack in his competitive debut
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Rhys Browne: Signed in May 2024 and netted 7 goals in 2024–25 for promotion-winning campaign
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Anthony Hartigan: Midfield leader, permanent signing in June 2024 after starring on loan; won multiple club awards last season
Newport County (likely 4‑3‑3)
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Goalkeeper: Carney
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Defence: Habeeb Ogunneye (loan from Man Utd, RB), Warner, Evans, Davies
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Midfield: Matt Smith, Antwi, Whitmore
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Attack: Patten, Gerard Garner, Michael Spellman
Key Signings:
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Gerard Garner and Matt Smith joined on free transfers and are expected to bolster Newport’s frontline and midfield respectively
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Habeeb Ogunneye: Manchester United loanee ready to feature in defence