By PON_News
As Notts County prepare to face Accrington Stanley at Meadow Lane today, head coach Stuart Maynard is filled with optimism. Speaking ahead of the game, Maynard reflected on his squad's performance, the close of the transfer window, and his team's unbeaten start to the League Two season.
After a 2-1 away victory over Swindon Town at the County Ground, Maynard's side find themselves in 7th place on the League Two table. He believes that his squad is well-positioned to build on their solid start, now having secured back-to-back wins, including an emphatic 4-1 home victory against Grimsby Town.
“We've got a squad now that can combat the opposition, as you're seeing from the start of the season,” Maynard said. “We’ve really good options within the squad, and as you've seen in games, when we've made substitutions, we’ve not got weaker, at times we've got stronger. That’s what we needed—people coming off the bench and having an impact.”
Maynard praised the club’s ability to retain key players amid interest from other teams during the transfer window, citing it as a critical factor in their ambitions for the season. He commended the club’s recruitment strategy, which has seen players stay despite tempting offers. "Keeping players in-house, that continuity, is sometimes the best business you can do," he emphasised. "It shows the ambition of the football club."
In terms of new arrivals, Maynard was also enthusiastic about the recent acquisition of George Abbott, a young player on loan from Tottenham Hotspur. Abbott, who has been playing with Spurs' U21s, is expected to adapt quickly to the demands of League Two. “He’s got real good enthusiasm and athleticism,” Maynard said. “He’s been around Spurs’ first team for a long time now. We believe he’s a real prospect for Tottenham, and we’re really excited to be working with him.”
The head coach also addressed the challenges of bringing in young players from higher divisions, noting the importance of fitting them into Notts County’s playing style. “We believe that we fit these players into a system and a style of play that suits their game, so they get the opportunity to come and really excel in it,” he explained, adding that Abbott's physicality would help him adjust to the rigours of League Two football.
One of the more controversial signings Notts County made was Jevani Brown, whose off-the-field issues had raised concerns among fans. Brown was involved in an incident 18 months ago for which he was fined, but Maynard was confident in the club’s decision. “We know it’s an emotive issue, and it’s a behaviour the club does not condone,” Maynard said. “We’ve got several character references on Jevani before signing him. We believe it was a one-off incident and out of character based on the research we’ve done.”
On the pitch, Maynard believes Brown will add another dimension to their attack. “He’s got the ability to open the door, especially in home games when teams sit back. We need players who can create chances when teams get 10 men behind the ball. He’s someone who can score goals and set them up,” the coach stated.
Reflecting on Notts County’s unbeaten start to the season, Maynard attributed the success to team cohesion and character. “Winning and being unbeaten breeds confidence,” he remarked. “We’ve come from behind in two games, drawn one, and won one. We’ve shown real character and that determination to keep the ball out of the net. Everyone’s in it together, and that’s why we’re having success.”
Looking ahead to the clash against Accrington Stanley, Maynard was cautious despite his side’s favourable position. “Accrington are in a false position. They’re a good team, competitive, with quality in the top end of the pitch that can hurt you. We’ve got to make sure we don’t take them lightly.”
As Notts County aim to continue their strong form, Maynard’s belief in his squad’s depth, discipline, and unity is clear. The coming weeks will prove whether this unbeaten run can translate into a sustained push for promotion, but for now, Maynard and his team remain focused on the task at hand.
With the transfer window behind them, the squad strengthened, and a firm foundation in place, Notts County are set for an exciting campaign.
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