Conor Grant Eager to Make an Impact at Notts County After Signing From MK Dons

Notts County's latest signing, Conor Grant, has expressed his delight and eagerness to hit the ground running at Meadow Lane following his move from MK Dons. Grant's transfer was finalised just one day before the club's League Two season opener against Tranmere Rovers, with the young midfielder joining as part of a deal that saw Aaron Nemane head in the opposite direction for an undisclosed fee.

Grant, who is expected to add creativity and dynamism to Notts County's midfield, was introduced to the fans via an interview published on the club’s official website. The 22-year-old couldn’t contain his excitement about joining the Magpies, making it clear that he’s ready to contribute immediately.

"Yeah, delighted. Delighted to be here," Grant began, still fresh from the emotions of his signing photoshoot. "I just really can't wait to get going now and be with all the boys, and, yeah, get going."

Grant arrives at Meadow Lane with an intriguing résumé, having spent the latter half of the previous season on loan at Barnsley. The unusual move saw him step up to a higher division, and he made a notable impact with two assists in crucial games that saw Barnsley come heartbreakingly close to reaching the play-off finals.

"Obviously, it was really good. Really good experience for me, playing in big games. Obviously, the playoff games were a great experience," Grant reflected. "But yeah, I really enjoyed my time there. So, yeah, looking forward to getting going."

While Grant’s time at MK Dons began on a high, winning the club's Young Player of the Year award after a standout first season, things didn’t unfold as he would have liked in the following campaigns. The midfielder admitted it was difficult to see the club relegated, but he’s taking the lessons in stride as he embarks on this new chapter at Notts County.

"Yeah, a bit of a weird one," he said of his time at MK Dons. "Obviously, that year we got relegated, which was a tough year for myself. So that was a tough one to take. But then the following year, yeah, it didn’t really happen for me. And that's football. You move on, you learn from it, and, yeah, just hoping for a good year this year."

Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard is optimistic that Grant's arrival could be transformative. Speaking about the new signing, Maynard expressed his belief that Grant could finally find his footballing home at Meadow Lane, given the three-year deal the player has committed to.

"He’s somebody that needs to really find his footballing home," Maynard remarked. "A three-year deal gives him the opportunity to do just that. We see the potential in Conor, and we believe that our ambitions as a club align perfectly with his personal goals."

For Grant, the prospect of settling down and flourishing at Notts County was a key factor in his decision to join. He was particularly drawn to the club’s aspirations and style of play, which he believes align well with his own footballing philosophy.

"I think the ambition the club has, you know, it’s a club that shouldn’t be in League Two, to be honest," Grant said. "And just speaking with the gaffer, the way he wants his team to play suits how I like to play football, so yeah, I think it’s a perfect match. And hopefully, it is."

As for his playing style, Grant described himself as a player who thrives on being involved in the game and making things happen, whether as a number 10 or a number 8 in midfield.

"Just getting on the ball, really, making things happen. It’s what I love to do and what I’ll try and do while I’m here," he explained, showing a clear understanding of his role and how he intends to contribute to the team.

With the start of the 2024-25 League Two season imminent, Grant has no time to waste. Despite only just arriving, he’s already preparing to be part of the matchday squad for the season opener against Tranmere Rovers. The excitement is palpable as he looks forward to meeting his new teammates and making an instant impact.

"Really looking forward to it. Obviously, nobody really likes preseason, so just looking forward to getting going and meeting all the boys, staff, everyone, and seeing the fans tomorrow. So yeah, it should be a good day," Grant concluded, ready to begin his journey with Notts County.

As the season kicks off, Notts County fans will be eagerly watching to see if Conor Grant can fulfil the promise that both he and the club believe he has, helping the Magpies push for success in League Two.

Be sure to add your pre- and post-match thoughts to the Pride of Nottingham match discussion; keep an eye on what fans have to say throughout the game against Tranmere Rovers.

Read the Pride of Nottingham match preview for the opening day fixture against Tranmere Rovers, and be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments.