Robins manager Darren Ryan confirmed the club had ended its pursuit of the released Rhyl striker, known as Jiws or Juice, and will now “pursue other targets.”

And despite the eve of season departure of striker Tommy Mutton to Gap Connah’s Quay the Robins boss insisted confidence was sky high ahead of Airbus UK Broughton’s visit to Latham Park on Saturday (2.30pm).

“It was no secret we had hoped to bring Marc back to Newtown but following talks the club has now decided to look elsewhere.”

Meanwhile Ryan confirmed Mutton’s return to Deeside after just four goals in 17 appearances during an injury plagued campaign.

Ryan commented: “We wish Tommy all the best in his career and thank him for his efforts for Newtown over the last season.

“At the end of the day not everyone can play every week and we respect Tommy’s decision to return to Nomads.”

Following the Robins midweek Loosemores Cup rout of Caernarfon Town the Newtown chief urged supporters to come along for the home league opener against Airbus UK Broughton.

“It was a great cup display and now we must build on that in the league against Airbus.

“They were unlucky against Prestatyn Town on the opening day and we know that they will provide a difficult challenge.

“They have brought in some experienced players during the summer and in Craig Harrison they have a manager who likes to play football.”

Craig Williams returns to the squad following work commitments with defender Hugh Clarke also back to fitness.

Meanwhile summer signing Mark Griffiths is back in training following a lengthy spell on the sidelines through injury.

Newtown underlined their improvement with a 7-1 mauling of Caernarfon Town in the Loosemores League Cup on Tuesday night.

And Ryan insists the performance angers well for the weekend visit of Broughton.

“I want us to be beating clubs like Caernarfon Town and Airbus UK Broughton from the off and the Loosemores League Cup display justifies our decision to field stronger teams in the competition this season.

“We would really like to enjoy a long cup run in the Welsh Cup and Loosemores Cup so Tuesday was a great start.

“Now we must put all our focus into Airbus UK Broughton and ensure that we get some points on the board.

“The first home league game of the season is always important and hopefully a large crowd will be there in force to cheer the lads on against Airbus.”