Jamie Fullarton: 'Preparation, effort and intent are key'

Notts County manager Jamie Fullarton has emphasised the importance of preparation ahead of a game, both on his part and that of the players.

The new boss, who took over from Ricardo Moniz last week, has reportedly been arriving at Meadow Lane at 6am every day since his appointment in a bid to do his research and tailor the training to the opposition – in this weekend’s case, Crawley Town away.

Fullarton told reporters on Thursday: "We don't want to overcomplicate certain areas of the pitch. I've tried to make it as simple as possible.

"The role of the coach is to help players the best they can and implement a strategy to help win games. That's what we've done and we've had a really good response from the players.

"Everything we do during the week, it is important the players take it on board and apply it come Saturday. Within the division, you do your prep and look at the opposition.

"Crawley had a very good result against Cambridge at home last week and they have threat and strength in their strike pairing.

"I am aware of the away form and the only way we can change it is by hard work, what we do every day on the training field and then the players responding to that.

"I want to see intent and it is a key phrase for me. We can talk about effort and that for me is part of intent. But intent is application and showing what we have done all week.

"Understanding what is required from our preparation, allied with the effort I demand, gives you a better chance of success.

"If the players show that on the pitch and put in place what we have worked on, then I am happy."

Notts take on Crawley this Saturday at 3pm. Share your opinions on the match build-up by visiting the Pride of Nottingham forum, joining the conversation and signing up to the community.