You can’t fail to have notice that Yak’s back, and you can’t have failed to notice the impact he’s had on the team.

The move came about when manager Joe Butcher got in touch at the end of last season. Jacob was keen straight away. He already had good relationships with a few of the lads, and he had heard how positive things were after last year.

"I've always had it in the back of my mind that I'd like to come back at some point, and there's definitely a feeling of unfinished business here for me."

Jacob has known "Butch" for a long time, so the two had some good conversations before he signed. Joe talked about what the club is trying to achieve, where it is heading and the role he sees Jacob playing. Jacob says it was clear there was a real plan behind it.

"It was clear he had a real plan and belief in what we're building here. That gave me a lot of confidence that this was the right move for me."

What made him come back

For Jacob, it was the people. He says Newport has always had a family feel, and that has stayed with the club as it has grown and changed.

"It's a club where everyone pulls together, and I'm excited to be part of it again and help push things forward."

The new home also played a part. It wasn't the only reason he came back, but it appealed to him. He sees it as a sign of the club's ambition, and he hopes it will bring in more supporters, create a great matchday atmosphere and give Newport a platform to keep growing.

A better player

Jacob has spent time away at Vics, and he says it has made a big difference. In his first spell at Newport he wasn't playing as regularly as he wanted. At Vics he played week in, week out at a good level.

"It taught me how to perform consistently and handle the demands of regular football."

He says the biggest change is his confidence and belief in himself. He knows his strengths now. He is at his best when he is getting into the box, scoring goals and creating chances for his team-mates. With more experience behind him, he feels he is coming back as a complete and mature player.

His favourite football memory comes from his time at Vics. He scored the winning penalty in the play-off final, the one that secured promotion.

"Seeing the celebrations with my teammates, the staff and the supporters afterwards made it even more memorable."

The squad

Jacob already knew some of the players, and he says the rest have been really welcoming. He has noticed a real togetherness in the group and a good team spirit, both on and off the pitch.

He is impressed by what he has seen so far. There is a great mix of experience and young talent, and he believes the squad can compete at the top end of the table.

"We know nothing is guaranteed and we'll have to work hard every week, but there's no reason why we can't be competing at the top end of the table."

The supporters

Jacob remembers the backing Newport fans gave the team in his first spell, both home and away. He says it always gave the players an extra lift.

"I can't wait to be back out there in front of them again, and hopefully I can repay that support with some good performances, goals and assists."

This season

Like every player, Jacob has his own targets. But he says the most important thing is helping the team have a successful season. If he can contribute goals, assists and consistent performances, he will be happy.

He also wants to bring leadership and experience to the squad. Asked what he would tell a supporter who stopped him in the street, he kept it simple.

"I'll work hard to help the team be successful and give the supporters something to enjoy this season."

Jacob says he is hungry to do well and make an impact, and to achieve something special with the team this time around.