Chris: 'Amazing to see so much positivity at Notts County'

One striking difference I have noticed during the 2017-18 League Two season for Notts is that Kevin Nolan has delivered on his words.

He has his side playing for the shirt, he’s tightened up the defence and made each player accountable on the pitch. It’s hard to imagine Notts playing like they did last season, especially under John Sheridan.

When you think about changing the philosophy a team plays, you wouldn’t expect the changes to be made so quickly – yet it was visible upon the appointment of Nolan that we have someone unlike the previous managers at Meadow Lane.

Whilst I would like to point out that it’s early days, I know enough fans who have warned me about the ‘Shaun Derry’ effect – but I do believe the club is moving in a clear direction, in fact I would say from the board down we are finally a club moving together.

The positivity around Meadow Lane is a joy right now, I have noticed fans who had stopped attending games due to the frustration (and various other reasons) are now back.

Home games are just another level, and although at times the Kop could be louder and the players could perform a little better – the fact we are grinding results out is such a positive thing right now. The stability level at Notts is at a new high, and this is something I hope will continue for a long time.

In previous articles, I have mentioned concerns which I do feel are starting to be addressed.

I’m pleased for Jonathan Forte and Rob Milsom who played well against Swindon Town – in a game where more than a few fans questioned the decision by Kevin Nolan to change five starting players.

I actually think Carl Dickinson picked up during the game and played well, although he looked like he was desperately needing match time early on (as he looked a little rusty). This demonstrates the availability we have within the squad, although I do agree there are areas which can be approved – this can happen come January.

I’ve always said it’s important for Notts County to send a signal of intent, not solely from the players that are signed but from the way we operate business on and off the field.

I feel it’s important for all players to feel respected, and settled within their squad duties. This starts from the board, yet it continues within the management and team dressing room. This is why I feel the contract talks between Alan Hardy and Nolan over the latter's future is pivotal to the success we may see this season.

Having the players see him secure a new contract on the merit of the work already achieved is such a huge reward, it sends the most positive message out of Meadow Lane and it’s a signal of intent that the football club is moving forwards.

Previous seasons I have been nervous seeing players’ contracts dwindle down, whether this was down to not knowing what the following season's budget was, debt, or simply a case of the players being unsure over their futures.

The foundations outlined by the managerial team is a big part of any club's success, I know this is football basics but for our club it seems to have been lost within the recent years.

So, it’s just good to see the positivity right now. I firmly believe the team performances will improve further, it will just take that moment for things to click on the pitch – hopefully between our strikers we have enough to continue.

Yet the goals are coming from all over the pitch, and one area I would love to see Notts score from is a corner – it seems like ages ago since we have done.

Though whilst it is early days, we must continue with our support and try to make Meadow Lane as lively as possible – after Jon Stead scored against Swindon Town I honestly feel the Kop shown its potential and this must create a buzz for the players.

I’m just very keen to see the work-rate continue, and would actively encourage Kevin Nolan to pen his contract – as I feel he can take the club much further than from the foot of the League Two table to where we currently stand.

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