The Exiles suffered a fourth defeat on the spin when beaten 1-0 by relegation-threatened Grimsby at Blundell Park.
Danny Rose scored the only goal of the game in the 33rd minute when he exploited a mix-up between goalkeeper Nick Townsend and striker Offrande Zanzala.
County’s poor run has seen them drop out of contention for the play-offs and they remain two points shy of Coughlan’s target to match last season’s tally of 57.
Worrying, the performances have dropped off and that means that the boss is set to wield the axe.
“It’s sad looking at some of our players from where they were to where they are now,” said Coughlan, whose squad is stretched by injury.
“We weren’t good enough and were lucky that it was only 1-0.
The Exiles’ victory against AFC Wimbledon last month put them only two points shy of the League Two play-off spots.
However, they have now collapsed to four straight losses, destroying any chance of salvaging the season.
“Football’s a short career, you have to make the most of every moment,” Coughlan stated.
“These boys have gone a long way. They performed exceptionally well. However, as professional football players, they must exhibit a small amount of self-confidence and professional standards because the season consists of 46 games rather than 38 or 39.
A few will reflect on their careers at this point. There are a few that most likely won’t be with us next year, so I just hope one or two of them don’t waste their careers.
That’s unfortunate because during the past four weeks, I’ve wanted to hang on to this group, but they’re leaving me with no options or choice.
“I wish them success since they likely have three or four games remaining for this football team, one or two of them. After that, who knows where they’ll end up?
Grimsby, who face relegation, were unfortunate not to win by a larger margin as Newport battled at Blundell Park, where Danny Rose scored their lone goal.
County, who will now play three straight games at home beginning with Accrington Stanley on Tuesday, have slipped to 10 points adrift of the top seven.
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Ben Evans/Huw Evans/Shutterstock (13904491ap)
Newport County manager Graham Coughlan looks dejected.
Newport County v Crewe Alexandra – EFL SkyBet League 2 – 08 May 2023
“At this moment in time we are so lucky we have got to 55 points because this group of lads, over the last four games, have shown we are probably not up for the battle, not up for the fight, not up to the standards that are needed,” Coughlan said.
“Yeah, you can speak about our player shortage all day long, but there are enough guys on the pitch to perform better than they are.
“Someone or two, I believe, have to accept responsibility and examine themselves in the mirror. They owe the supporters and the football team, in my opinion.”
