NEWPORT County AFC’s push for promotion has received a second swift blow after Swansea City recalled defender Brandon Cooper from his season long loan.

Hot on the heels from Scott Twine going back to parent club Swindon, the 20-year-old has gone back west to the Liberty Stadium.

The Wales Under-21s international had been a mainstay of Michael Flynn’s side signing for 2020/21 in September with his exploits earning a new contract with the Swans.

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Comfortable on the right of three centre-backs or in a flat four, Cooper has made 25 appearances and impressed with his defending and composure on the ball.

County boss Flynn said last month that he had held “positive conversations” with his Swansea counterpart Steve Cooper about the bright prospect finishing the season at Rodney Parade.

South Wales Argus:

"I am confident after speaking to Steve they see his development here until the end of the season and then it’s down to Brandon in pre-season to force his way into the Swansea first team," Flynn said.

However, Cooper will no longer be aiming to help the Exiles into League One after the Swans were hit by an injuries to defenders Ryan Bennett, Kyle Naughton and Joel Latibeaudiere.

The departure leaves Flynn with a defensive headache after Cooper formed such a strong partnership with Matty Dolan, who has been moved from midfield to a back three, and Mickey Demetriou.

Scot Bennett is an option while summer signing David Longe-King has made a pair of appearances as a sub after a serious groin injury.

Kyle Howkins started the season in the back three before Cooper’s arrival but has been missing since September because of a hamstring injury.

Academy prospect Joe Woodiwiss has played in a trio of EFL Trophy games and was an unused substitute in the Carabao Cup win against Swansea.

However, it could well be that Flynn opts to bring in a new defender in his January recruitment drive.

County have confirmed that the loans are over for defender Aaron Lewis (Lincoln), defender Bradley Webb (Bristol City), midfielder Scott Twine (Swindon) and forward Saikou Janneh (Bristol City).