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Tottenham Hotspur Loanee George Abbott Reflects on His First Start for Notts County: "Unbelievable Experience"


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Notts County loanee George Abbott has reflected on his first full 90 minutes for the Magpies, describing it as an "unbelievable" experience. 

The 19-year-old, who joined the club on a season-long loan from Tottenham Hotspur, made his first start during Notts' 2-0 win over Accrington Stanley at Meadow Lane. The young midfielder, known for his versatility, slotted into the defensive midfield role and spoke highly of the trust his teammates placed in him.

Abbott’s inclusion in the starting line-up came after being informed a few days before the match during training, allowing him time to prepare both mentally and physically. Reflecting on the game, Abbott said, “It was unbelievable, honestly. From the start, I enjoyed myself. I got on the ball a lot, and it was good to see that all the boys around me trusted me on the ball as well, and then from there I was able to grow into the game.” His joy was evident as he recalled how the game unfolded, crediting his teammates for helping him settle into his role on the pitch.

The match, which took place in front of a crowd of over 10,000 at Meadow Lane, proved to be a special occasion for the youngster, who was eager to experience the atmosphere. "A couple of days before I found out in training, so obviously I was buzzing, waiting for this game because I knew the crowd would be an unbelievable turnout," he explained. "10,000 plus, I think. And yeah, I couldn't wait to play in front of these lot, and during the game it showed that. They gave us all their energy, and we gave it back by giving them two goals."

Known for his combative style of play, Abbott displayed his enthusiasm for a tackle, particularly in 50–50 situations. “I like to anticipate the ball a bit, but I'll always go in for a slide tackle if it's a 50-50,” he said with a smile. This was certainly on show during the game, as he was involved in several robust challenges. He was quick to point out, however, that his physical style stems from the confidence his teammates have in him. "It came from the boys trusting me on the ball, so I know I can turn out of tight areas and get past people."

The midfielder also spoke highly of his teammates’ contributions, particularly in reference to the team's first goal. “This is a joke, his finishing is unbelievable," Abbott said, clearly impressed by David McGoldrick's ability. "I was right behind it as well, and when I saw him taking it inside, I knew he was going to shoot, but to finish it like that was unreal."

Abbott recognised that the team’s energy dipped at the start of the second half, but they soon regained their momentum and pushed for the decisive second goal. “We didn’t start as energetic and well as we did in the first half, but as it grew on, we got better. We were pushing for that second goal, and we knew it was always going to come. It was just about when,” Abbott said, reflecting on the game’s turning point.

For Abbott, this start wasn’t just about the match itself, but also the significance of his first full appearance in men's football. “It means a lot to me,” he shared. “It was my first men’s start as well, and to play amongst these players is just incredible.”

Though this was Abbott’s first full start, he previously made a brief appearance for Spurs at Elland Road, playing just a minute in added time. “I’ve got a tackle in at the end, so I was buzzing with that,” he joked. Despite this, the game against Accrington Stanley represented his first true test in front of a large crowd, and he relished the experience.

Abbott’s family was in attendance for his big moment, and he revealed they were impressed by the Meadow Lane atmosphere. “My sister, my younger sister, and both my parents were there. I think they’re going to turn up to a couple more games, especially after how good the crowd is. I think they were loving it, and yeah, they’ll definitely turn up more,” he said, clearly proud of his debut.

With his first start now under his belt, Abbott will be hoping to make more appearances for Notts County as the season progresses. If his performance against Accrington is anything to go by, the Tottenham Hotspur loanee looks set to make a significant impact during his time at Meadow Lane.

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its really nice having a young talent like him at the club, where his focus on purely on enjoying football. i think this makes a large difference when you coming in and playing your first senior games. i think george abbott is a very patient and hard working player who looks like he could be a very important signing for the club even if hes on loan.

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George Abbott is a very talented young player. He has settled in well at Notts County and has been very effective when he has played. I was impressed by his defensive work. He broke up attacks and helped us to get forward. He played very well, and you would not believe it was his first start in front of such a big crowd. He was not nervous at all. He played calmly and with quality.

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I am pleased to hear that he was supported by his family, being told ahead of time must have been exciting and allowed for him to prepare his family to come to Meadow Lane. That adds pressure, so the fact he was unfazed by the amount of fans in attendance and his family watching, shows the quality and calmness he brings to the middle of the park. It's nice to see his maturity, which is evident by how he speaks. It's nice to see him praising the team, but his performance was very good. It's encouraging to see how he progresses for us.

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I think that Notts have a gem in George Abbott & I hope that Notts can keep him for the whole season as agreed with Spurs.

When he came here I read that Spurs fans thought a lot of him and they were right too.

His debut for Notts was brilliant & for such a young age, George has a good footballing head on his shoulders. He was my pick for man of the match against Accrington.

It will be fascinating to see how Stuart solves his growing selection headaches. It's going to be difficult for Stuart not to pick him against Bromley.

I think a Palmer & Abbott partnership in the centre of midfield for Notts would be awesome, but we do have some really good players like Roberson & Edwards, who will have something to say about that.

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George Abbott’s performance in his first start for Notts was nothing short of spectacular. It's always tough for young players to step up to the main squad, but Abbott handled it with grace and confidence. His ability to control the midfield and his willingness to go for those 50-50 tackles show that he's not just physically prepared but mentally ready as well. His reflections on the game, highlighting the trust and support of his teammates, speak volumes about the team's camaraderie and his potential to grow. With the crowd’s energy supporting him, it’s clear that Abbott's future at Notts County looks very promising.

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Watching George Abbott’s first start for Notts was a treat. His reflections on the support and trust from his teammates indicate a cohesive unit, something crucial for any player’s success. The enthusiasm he displayed with tackles and ball distribution was impressive, and it’s refreshing to see a young player so dedicated to his craft. The fact that he had over 10,000 fans cheering him on must have been an incredible experience. Abbott’s debut might just be the beginning, but it’s a highly positive sign for both him and the club.

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George Abbott’s first 90 minutes for Notts County were highly impressive. His role in the midfield demonstrated his versatility and readiness for first-team football. Reflecting on his debut, Abbott mentioned how the trust placed in him by his teammates helped boost his confidence, allowing him to grow into the game. The fact that he played such a significant role in a 2-0 win speaks volumes about his capabilities. It’s great to see young talent getting opportunities and making the most of them. With such a start and his family supporting him from the stands, Abbott looks set to become a key player for Notts. Let’s hope he continues to develop and play more games this season.

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I think he’s an amazing talent, and he’ll only improve with more game time. I’m loving how Notts are handling him.

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It is good to know that Notts County are helping such a talented young player to start his senior football career. It is nice to see him settle in at Meadow Lane. I hope he enjoys his season with us, as he looks set to make a big contribution to our push for a top finish. Spurs fans will hopefully be delighted to know that he is doing well and being taken care of.

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