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In a thrilling development for Notts County, our very own attacking midfielder, James Sanderson, has signed his first professional contract with the club.Β 

This is a significant milestone in the young player's career and a proud moment for everyone associated with the club.

James, who is just 17 years old, recently returned to our academy after a spell in grassroots football. His return has been nothing short of spectacular. He has seized his opportunity to impress at the first-team level and his performances have not gone unnoticed.Β 

As a result of his hard work and dedication, he has been rewarded with a contract that will keep him at Meadow Lane until June 2026.

His journey with the club has been remarkable. He made a memorable debut against Shrewsbury Town in the Emirates FA Cup, where he found the back of the net. This was a dream start for any young player and James made the most of it. His EFL debut was equally impressive, contributing to our 3-0 victory over Doncaster Rovers. Since then, he has been a regular feature in our squads, showing his worth with every opportunity.

Upon signing his contract, an ecstatic James said, β€œFootball is all I’ve ever wanted to do, so it’s an amazing feeling to be able to carry that on. My family and friends are over the moon for me, especially my dad who has travelled all over the country to support my efforts to become a professional footballer."

He further added, "Being involved in the first team has been an amazing experience, and I’ve learned so much – it’s like a whole new sport to me. All the lads have been brilliant, helping me as much as they can."

James also expressed his gratitude towards the academy staff, including Gavin Mee, Dan Leivers, and Tigran Tadevosyan, for their instrumental roles in his journey. Their guidance and support have been invaluable in his development as a player.

Richard Montague, a member of our board who leads on recruitment, expressed his delight at James's progress. He said, β€œEveryone at Meadow Lane is delighted for James, who has shown great promise both in training and matches. We’re very excited by his potential and look forward to watching his continued development.”

This is indeed a proud moment for Notts County. We are thrilled to see one of our own rising through the ranks and making a mark in the world of football. James's journey is a testament to the club's commitment to nurturing young talent and providing them with opportunities to shine.

As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to many more successes for James Sanderson and our beloved club. Here's to a bright future filled with many more victories and achievements.

Pride of Nottingham member Robbie has initiated an engaging discussion on Tom Williams' insightful analysis of how Stuart Maynard's Notts County might line up. This discussion promises to be a fascinating exploration of team strategies and formations. Don't miss out!

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Recommended Comments

its great to see him given a deal, i thought he had signed a professional deal before he made his debut but i am pleasantly surprised to learn this was not the case. it makes his debut a bit more special and no doubt james sanderson has worked hard to earn this.

i am very pleased for him, well done james!

NiftyNick

Members

What a start for the lad! Pure class on the pitch against Doncaster. Can see Sanderson shaping the future of Meadow Lane. Well in!

allardyces tash

Members

There's something special about seeing a young player rise through the ranks at Notts County. James Sanderson represents not just the future of our club, but the power of dedication and passion for the game. His commendable performances, especially that striking debut goal against Shrewsbury, have rightly earned him a spot on the first team.

The club's nurturing environment, spearheaded by the academy staff, clearly plays a pivotal role in shaping raw talent into professional finesse. This is the kind of news that does not just excite us for the immediate impact on the pitch, but also for the long-term prospects of Notts County.

Countyman

Members

The signing of James Sanderson tells me that Notts County hasn't lost its touch in recognising and nurturing young potential. He's exactly the kind of player that makes the academy system so vital.

a beacon of hope for others striving to make it. To come back from grassroots and perform so well under the first-team pressure is commendable. I'm eagerly anticipating his growth over the next few seasons. Well done to all involved.

NottsTastic

Members

Dream debut, dream contract! James is the kind of talent that makes you proud to be a Magpie. Excited for what's next!

JustLikeJuve

Members

I'm absolutely chuffed to bits with the news about James, a real homegrown talent committing his future to the club. Seeing him play is a reminder of why we support this beautiful game. The kid's got energy, skill, and that intangible spark that you just can't coach.

In the game against Doncaster, he was everywhere, chasing balls, creating opportunities, and showing that he's not just at Meadow Lane to make up the numbers. And signing until 2026? That's the kind of long-term thinking and commitment from both the player and the club that can build a solid foundation for success. We might have a genuine star on our hands here!

Sir Magpie

Members

James Sanderson’s commitment to Notts County is a testament to the club's vision for youth and development. His natural ability and recent performances have created a buzz that's been missing around Meadow Lane. As a fan, it’s thrilling to witness a young talent like Sanderson be woven into the fabric of our first team. The club deserves immense credit for fostering such talent and for showing faith in their youth setup.

thommo

Members

Massive congrats to James Sanderson on the professional contract. It’s heartwarming to see a young, hungry player get his chance and truly grab it with both hands. His humility, talent and enthusiasm shout 'Notts County' through and through. The club has done well to recognize and lock down his potential. Here’s hoping he’s the first of many such success stories from our academy ranks.

NottsCountyKev

Members

It's signings like these that remind you of the magic of football. James Sanderson isn't just a player; he's a symbol of hope and success that the Notts County Academy can produce. His close ones must be ecstaticΒ  and I reckon his dad's miles travelled will double seeing James excel! The club has made a smart move by securing his loyalty early on. Can't wait to see his talent unfold even further.

I’m also delighted for James Sanderson. He appears to be an exceptional talent, and the next goal should be to get him more playing time in our team. He’s performed well so far, and I really appreciate his humble attitude towards his journey, indicating that he doesn’t take anything for granted.

upthepies

Members

A hearty well done to James Sanderson! He’s the sort of chap that truly represents what Notts County is all about. Here’s to many more splendid years!

JohnTheBost

Members

I think Notts are doing well with the young players, and I hope Stuart Maynard is the manager who will give them more chances. Luke Williams has begun, but he tends to rely on experienced players. The youngsters won't gain experience if we don't start giving them more opportunities.

StanfordPie

Members

The journey of Sanderson from grassroots to becoming a professional is the perfect inspiration for our academy kids, demonstrating that hard work truly pays off. Moreover, the news of Sanderson extending his contract until 2026 is fantastic. Having seen him play against Shrewsbury, it's clear the lad has a promising future ahead!

It’s great to see a young player make it to professional, I wish the lad all the luck in the world.

The next Tommy Johnson?

lambleypie

Members

Yes, I’m quite chuffed for the lad. I had high hopes for Sam Osborne to be the home-grown player who would establish himself as a key first team player, but unfortunately, we let him go. Now, my hope is that we give James Sanderson every chance to thrive.

Robbie

+Supporters

It's always something to celebrate when a young player comes through the academy and makes it to the first team.

All the years of hard work and toil have paid off, and those who have guided him through the academy should have a special mention too.

The Sanderson success is a testament to the Notts County youth policy.

I wish him all the success that he will hopefully have throughout his career as a professional footballer.

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