Jump to content

Stuart Maynard’s Optimism: Key Players Return as Notts County Prepares for Gillingham Showdown


PON_News

Stuart Maynard, head coach of Notts County, has expressed optimism about the progress of his squad as they head into a critical clash against Gillingham. 

Speaking about the team’s readiness, Maynard highlighted the positive strides made in key areas, including the return of players from injury, improved defensive solidity, and the vital support from the fans.

Maynard revealed encouraging updates on several players recovering from injuries. Rob McDonald and Lucas Ness are nearing full fitness, with McDonald back in training and Ness following closely behind. Both are expected to be ready for selection in the coming weeks, which Maynard described as "brilliant for us" in ensuring squad depth. 

He also shared that Scott Robertson and Cedwyn Scott are progressing well, with Scott potentially available within a fortnight.

Reflecting on the team's improved performances, Maynard attributed their better grasp of his system to the full pre-season the squad had under their belts. Last season’s teething issues have given way to a more cohesive unit, and Maynard credits the extensive training period for helping them refine their approach. 

"Pre-season has been huge for us... to get all the key points and different factors," he explained, emphasizing that this preparation has been crucial in implementing both attacking and defensive strategies.

Notts County's ability to score goals remains a hallmark of Maynard’s system, even when influential players like Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley were absent. He praised the team for continuing to find the back of the net, with their structured approach allowing other players to step up. 

Maynard highlighted Jones' versatility, saying, "He's starting to score goals... and the defenders don’t know which way he's going now," pointing to Jones' newfound unpredictability on the pitch.

However, it’s not just about attacking for Maynard. He stressed the importance of defending as a team and credited the entire squad, from the forwards to the wing-backs, for their commitment to protecting the goal. 

While players like Jacob Bedeau, Louis Macari, and Alex Bass in goal have been standout performers, Maynard emphasised that the collective defensive effort has been key to their unbeaten start. "It's not just an emphasis on the defence... it's on the group," he said.

Looking ahead to the upcoming game against Gillingham, Maynard acknowledged the physical challenge posed by their opponents but reaffirmed his commitment to sticking to Notts County’s playing style. 

"We always look at ourselves first and foremost," he stated, while also recognizing the need to match Gillingham's physicality.

As always, Maynard called on the fans to play their part, pointing to their impact during the recent 4-2 comeback against Bromley. "The fans have been incredible... we need Meadow Lane rocking," he urged, stressing the importance of their role as the "12th man" in driving the team forward.

With momentum building and players returning from injury, Maynard’s confidence in his squad is clear. However, he remains grounded, insisting that while the team’s unbeaten run has bred confidence, the focus is solely on the next challenge: Gillingham at Meadow Lane.

In our latest article, Dan Crowley reaffirms his commitment to the club, stating, "My focus is on Notts. I’m a Notts County player," highlighting the strong bond within the Pride of Nottingham community.

Join the Pride of Nottingham today to connect with fellow fans and celebrate the spirit of our club! If you're already a member, sign in and get involved to make your voice heard!



Share your PRIDE with PON! Visit our Community Forum

Join us - Discuss - Write for us - Debate - Contact us


Member Feedback

Recommended Comments

liampie

Posted

its good to see that we have some players returning, that is important with the loss of curtis edwards. i am encouraged to see what lucas ness is like, but i dont think he should start ahead of lewis macari. macari has been brilliant at the back for us so far!

  • Like 13
  • Love 4
NiftyNick

Posted

Fantastic news about Ness and McDonald. Their return will be a massive boost for us.

  • Like 14
The Heff

Posted

I'm really optimistic about our chances against Gillingham, especially with key players like Rob McDonald and Lucas Ness close to return. The pre-season definitely seems to have paid off, as Maynard’s system is now well-oiled and effective.

The way he has the team both attacking and defending as a unit is commendable. Our ability to score, even without key players like Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley, speaks volumes about the squad’s depth and adaptability. Maynard is right to focus on our style, while matching Gillingham's physicality. Can't wait for the match, Meadow Lane should be rocking!

  • Like 4
  • Love 15
Robbie

Posted

It's good news that the injured players are close to returning back to the team. Stuart will manage their return in his own way & he will not rush things.

I give Stuart lots of credit for how the team is playing. His methods are clearly working at this time & he must be highly delighted.

Stuart will have to keep the players firmly focused on playing one game at a time, & to ensure that they keep their feet firmly on the ground.

The players will know the significance of this game with Gillingham. What we do know, is that Stuart will have planned well, & will pick a team to specifically deal with the Gillingham threat.

CMON U PIES.

  • Like 5
  • Love 12
TheSkipper

Posted

The squad is looking good. Maynard keeps mentioning the depth, and we do have that. I am not too concerned about players being injured while we are playing well. They will just be a boost when they are ready. We don’t need to worry so much about that. Just focus on the form and keeping Meadow Lane a fortress. It would be great to continue our impressive start against Gillingham tomorrow.

  • Like 3
  • Love 16
CliftonMagpie

Posted

It’s good news about the returning players. Defensively, I think we are fine. My concerns are more with Cedwyn Scott and the front line, as this is an area we can’t lose too many players. I know we have Jevani Brown, who could come in, but as I say, it’s largely positive news. I think Stuart Maynard has a good chance of managing the situation with injuries and giving some players who might not have had minutes more time.

  • Like 5
  • Love 14
NottsTastic

Posted

Solid defensive team effort! Exactly what's needed to keep our unbeaten run going.

  • Like 17
RetroPie

Posted

Stuart Maynard has really turned things around for Notts County. The pre-season seems to have been a game-changer, allowing the squad to gel and refine their approach. I’m particularly pleased with the emphasis on defensive solidity, players like Jacob Bedeau and Louis Macari have been outstanding, and it’s great to see the whole team buying into the defensive responsibilities.

  • Like 4
  • Love 15
thommo

Posted

It’s not just about defence; our attacking play remains sharp, even when key players are out. Jones’ newfound unpredictability and the overall team’s willingness to step up are encouraging signs. Maynard’s optimism is well-founded, especially with key players returning from injury. The next game against Gillingham will be a real test, but I’m confident we’re up for it, especially with the fan support at Meadow Lane. Let’s bring the noise and be that 12th man!

  • Like 9
  • Love 9
MagpieLane

Posted

It's fantastic news that McDonald and Ness are on their way back from injury. Maynard’s focus on both attacking and defensive cohesion has been evident this season, especially with the solid performances from players like Bedeau and Macari. It’s clear the pre-season work has paid dividends. Also, great to see the fans playing their part every game, creating that vital 12th man effect.

  • Like 7
  • Love 4
Blake

Posted

It’s good news about the injuries. I’m still worried about Curtis Edwards, but at least we have some players coming back, maybe not for tomorrow, but in a few games' time. I also like how Stuart Maynard is coming across; he’s growing into the role.

  • Like 11
ExiledPie

Posted

The focus on both defensive and attacking strategies has clearly paid off. It is reassuring to hear about McDonald and Ness nearing full fitness. Their return will shore up our defence significantly in time. The pre-season seems to have been beneficial in getting the squad on the same page. The unbeaten run has built some good confidence among the players and fans alike. Looking at our next challenge, Gillingham, it’s clear we’ll need to maintain our style of play while matching their physicality.

  • Like 7
  • Love 4


Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now

About PON

Pride of Nottingham

Pride of Nottingham is an independent fansite devoted to Notts County, the world’s oldest professional football club. Created in 2013, it has served as a source of Magpie news, features, match previews, reports, analysis and interviews for more than three years.

Support PON

Enjoy our content? Want to help us grow? Your donation will go a long way towards improving the site!

donate-pon.png

Meet the Team

Chris Chris Administrators
super_ram super_ram Global Moderators
DangerousSausage DangerousSausage Global Moderators
CliftonMagpie CliftonMagpie Global Moderators

Social Media

×
    Search In
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

Pride of Nottingham uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. To approve, simply continue using the site or click 'I accept' Terms of Use.