David McGoldrick Back in Contention as Stuart Maynard Prepares Notts for Derby with Chesterfield

Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard has addressed the media ahead of the highly anticipated away fixture against Chesterfield this weekend.

The Magpies will be eager to bounce back from their 1-0 defeat to Port Vale, while Chesterfield, currently sitting 12th in League Two, earned a 2-2 draw against league leaders Walsall. 

Maynard offered insight into the squad's fitness, the intensity surrounding the game, and the significance of having key players like David McGoldrick and Rod McDonald back in contention.

He also acknowledged the emotional build-up to the match, as it marks the first time the two sides have met since last season’s thrilling promotion play-off final at Wembley.

Maynard provided an encouraging update on the fitness of David McGoldrick, who has been side-lined for the past couple of games.

“David’s back in contention for selection, which is great news for us,” Maynard said, acknowledging the importance of McGoldrick’s performances so far this season.

“His performance levels this year have been excellent, and some of the goals that he’s scored for us out of nothing have been incredible. Some of the finishes have been right up there with the top end of Premier League football.”

McGoldrick’s availability is a boost, given his ability to create moments of magic and change the course of a game.

His return will add firepower to an attack that has been frustrated at times, particularly in the home defeats this season.

Maynard also discussed the progress of defender Rod McDonald, who recently returned to action.

“Rod’s in contention, and it was great to see him get through 90 minutes, which is important for him and for us.” However, Maynard exercised caution with centre-back Lucas Ness, who also featured midweek in the EFL Trophy defeat to Northampton Town.

“We’ve just got to manage him and make sure nothing else happens injury-wise. When you come back from long-term injuries, you can pick up little niggles, and we want to make sure that doesn’t happen with Ness.”

Saturday’s clash with Chesterfield comes with added significance, while the fans are understandably focused on the rivalry and the history between the clubs, Maynard remains clear-headed.

“There’s a real excitement about the place, you can feel it, but for us as a management team, it’s another game we’re looking to win and come away with three points.”

While Maynard is keen to keep his players focused, he acknowledged the magnitude of the occasion.

“The players will know the magnitude of what’s gone on in the past, but we’re solely focused on ourselves within the game. It’s going to be an incredible atmosphere, and we know our away fans will come and be loud and get behind the players. We’re really looking forward to it.”

Reflecting on Notts County’s season so far, Maynard pointed to consistency as the primary goal.

“I’ve always said this league will be tight throughout the season, and I think there are probably 14 to 16 clubs that believe they can get promoted this year.”

He praised the consistency of his team, despite recent home frustrations. “We’ve created more opportunities than the opposition in the games we’ve lost, but we’ve not been clinical in key moments.”

Maynard also touched on the contrast between home and away form, with the Magpies remaining unbeaten on the road.

“At home, teams sit in a low block, which can be difficult to break down when you go behind. Away from home, teams tend to open up a bit more, which suits us and makes it easier to go through them.”

Despite Chesterfield being a newly promoted side, Maynard refused to underestimate them. “They’ve invested well in the summer and have quality at the top end of the pitch.

They’re not here just to stabilise, they want to be at the top end of the division.” Having faced Chesterfield multiple times during his days at Wealdstone, Maynard is fully aware of the threat they pose. “We know it’s going to be a really tough game.”

With the Magpies currently 5th in League Two, Maynard’s focus on consistency and managing the emotions surrounding this derby could prove pivotal as they aim to climb the table.

The return of key players like McGoldrick and McDonald will undoubtedly strengthen their chances, but Maynard is clear, this is just another game to win.

Notts County captain, Matt Palmer, says he's ready for a tough game today against Chesterfield. Read his thoughts on the game here and add your opinion in the comments.

Be sure to update the Pride of Nottingham match discussion with your thoughts throughout the Derby Day clash away to Chesterfield, let PON know your thoughts!