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Notts County secure Manchester United defender Sonny Aljofree on season-long loan

Notts County has strengthened their defense by bringing in Sonny Aljofree, a centre-back from Manchester United, on loan for the season.
Aljofree, who's just 20, is getting a lot of praise at Old Trafford. He’s even been the captain for both the Under-18s and Under-23s teams.
Last season, he really made a name for himself with Accrington Stanley. He played 27 games and even scored three goals. Because of how well he played, he snagged two Man of the Match awards while he was at the Wham Stadium.
Director of Football Roberto Gagliardi believes Notts have pulled off a real coup by bringing Aljofree to Meadow Lane, beating off competition from several League One clubs in the process.
“Sonny has all the traits of a modern-day defender – balancing an aggressive playing style with the ability to distribute the ball from the back,” said Gagliardi.
The young defender has demonstrated his versatility across the back line, operating mainly in a back four for United’s youth teams but also showing his adaptability on the right of a back three during his stint with Accrington.
“He’s capable of playing anywhere across the defensive line, mainly being deployed in a back four for Manchester United but often on the right of a back three during his impressive loan at Accrington,” Gagliardi added.
Born into a football family, his father, Hasney Aljofree, played for Plymouth Argyle, among others. Sonny comes with a strong pedigree and has already shown signs of leadership, something that hasn’t gone unnoticed at Carrington.
“Sonny’s maturity is reflected in the leadership roles he’s been given and the high esteem he’s held by United. Combined with the fact he’s the son of former Plymouth defender, Hasney Aljofree, he has a very strong footballing pedigree,” Gagliardi said.
Aljofree was on the Manchester United team that won the FA Youth Cup in 2022. He can also play for Singapore's national team if he gets the chance.
As Notts gear up for the new campaign, fans will be hoping Aljofree’s arrival adds depth and steel to the back line as the club looks to build on last season’s progress.
“We faced strong competition from a number of League One clubs to sign him, and we look forward to supporting his continued development,” Gagliardi concluded.

Join in with the Pride of Nottingham by sharing your thoughts on the 20-year-old defender, Sonny Aljofree, who has signed on a season-long loan from Manchester United.

Piedestrian posts about "The Grant Paradox"; what do you think of Conor Grant, and how can Martin Paterson get the most out of his talent?
PON_News

Martin Paterson Reflects on SV Darmstadt 98 Defeat but Sees Plenty of Positives

Martin Paterson insists there were plenty of encouraging signs despite his side falling to a 2-1 defeat in their opening pre-season tour friendly against SV Darmstadt 98 in Germany.
The new Notts County head coach, who took over after Stuart Maynard’s departure in the wake of last season’s painful play-off semi-final loss, spoke candidly after his first game in charge, watched by over 200 travelling Magpie supporters.
“Lots of positives. Things inside it that I'm looking at and going, yeah, really good,” Paterson reflected after the match. “But also we’ve got to be honest, there's things that I tried tonight and we looked like we probably can't do. So we have to tweak a few things, I changed shape a couple of times because I didn't like it and we're up against a really good opposition.”
Paterson acknowledged the quality of the German second-tier side, admitting his players were punished for lapses in concentration. “They were good, they were fit and I think that showed. I think their athleticism, when we were a little bit sloppy on the ball and we didn't connect, they went through us really well and they transitioned really well,” he said.
The match saw tempers flare midway through the first half, something Paterson addressed honestly. “A little bit of a melee affected us and I don't know why because young Inchy had a tackle, which is allowed in football by the way, and there was a big melee. I don't understand why. I asked my centre midfielders to compete and I didn't come here to lie down.”
Despite the defeat, Paterson emphasised that the shortcomings were easy to identify and fix. “The positive what we have is it's easily identifiable what we got wrong. If we're pressing, we're going to believe in it. If we're defending the box, we've got to get out of the box as quickly as we can rather than sitting in. We're sitting ducks, and they get the first easy goal, which I was displeased with.”
He also underlined the need for balance as he instills his style. “I want to be careful I don't beat them with a stick. They're still learning my methods. I'm still trying things with the team. I don't believe I've got all my pieces on the board, which I haven't. We're missing quality, but what I did like was in a tough environment with a good crowd, I did like the fact that one, the players showed good character to stay inside the game and try and get back into it.”
Paterson made it clear that losing, even in pre-season, does not sit well with him or his squad. “We don't like losing games of football, so I can say that right off the bat. We're not laughing and joking there because it's pre-season. A lot of people say that was a good, I don't know what word to use, they say it was a good training game. No chance. We want to win. So they'll be told that.”
He was keen to highlight the demands he is placing on his players to improve fitness and maintain an aggressive pressing style. “We train every day. So we'll be back out there training tomorrow, and we'll prepare for the game. And again, we go there to Kaiserslautern, a good team, but we're going to compete. And that's the mantra that I've kind of told the players. We're going over to Germany, not for exercises or practice games. We're going over there to put a statement down of how we compete.”
On the support from the travelling fans, Paterson was full of praise. “Yeah, it's quite evident, probably louder than the home crowd, which is great. And again, I know what football club I'm coming to. They back us and follow us across the country, across the world. And that's why the responsibility I carry is high. But it is nice, especially with it being the time of the year, to see so many travel, clap the players. They see them running at the end. They know that it's a full-time job and the players aren't just playing 30 minutes and having a nice bath. They're out there running and trying to get better.”
Next up for Paterson’s side is another tough test against Kaiserslautern, with the new boss determined to keep pushing standards. “Again, displeased we're losing. No problem saying that, but pleased with the character and the signs that I'm showing, but we need to ramp it up now. And another tough test against Kaiserslautern on Saturday. And it's good, it's good that we're playing against opposition that are at higher levels than us.”
Paterson isn’t messing around when it comes to pre-season! He’s set some clear goals and has high expectations, making it clear that this isn’t just a laid-back holiday vibe. Notts fans are really hoping this tough approach will pay off when the new season kicks off.

Pride of Nottingham member, Ash, has asked the community if they would like to James Sanderson complete within the first team this season, share your thoughts!

🙏🏻 Read about Notts County fan Kimbo's fight with cancer and how she is staying positive despite the ongoing battle with the illness, and how you can help.
PON_News

Standing with Kimbo: A Magpie's Bravest Fight Yet

Kim Walster, or Kimbo as most people know her, was born on 21st June. She’s always been full of energy, stubborn in the best way, and completely dedicated to the things she loves.
One of those things has always been Notts County. Over the years, she’s done everything from fundraising to painting the seats at Meadow Lane. Now she’s up against something way harder than any away game or team problem, cancer.
After going through treatment in 2023, Kim had ten months where things looked hopeful. But in May, she was given the news no one ever wants to hear. The cancer was back, and this time it had spread to her pelvis, spine, and lungs.
Kim grew up in Arnold, the youngest of two. Her brother Daniel, was always nearby, and the two of them spent hours playing football in the field behind their home. Their dad, Tony, worked as a Nottingham City Transport driver, and their mum, Lorraine, worked at Notts County Football Club. Football was a big part of daily life. Kim played for Arnold Girls for eleven years and says it was a brilliant time. She didn’t get on with school, but college helped her get some qualifications and gave her the confidence to do things her way.
Notts County has been in Kim’s life as far back as she can remember. She jokes that she supported the club from the moment she was born. At times, she wore the Mr Magpie costume on matchdays, and her dad spent years playing the role of Mrs Magpie. But supporting the club wasn’t just about turning up on Saturdays. When Notts were in real trouble, Kim did everything she could to help. She did some fundraising by walking from Meadow Lane all the way to Mansfield's Field Mill. She took part in three 24-hour football challenges. She painted seats. She worked at the club for over two years alongside her mum. And when her mum went unpaid for months, Kim carried on doing what she could to help them both.
She also played in Junior Magpies football with Reg Killick, Alan Higgott, and Iris Smith, and travelled across the country following Notts on Iris’s coach as part of the original supporters club. For Kim, it was more than just following a football team. It was her community and her identity.
Despite recent disappointments with the club, she remains committed to supporting Notts County wholeheartedly. Her allegiance remains steadfast despite the changed circumstances.
The return of cancer was a devastating blow, but Kim hasn't given up. She intends to commence immunotherapy treatment. The aim is to reduce her discomfort and decelerate the progression of her condition. Also, she has compiled a list of destinations she wishes to travel to while her health permits and the climate is favourable. Her loved ones have united in support, offering assistance where possible. They have also organised a fundraising initiative to financially aid her aspirations.
For Kim, it’s about making memories while she can. Sharing moments with the people who matter most. It’s not the end, she says. This marks the beginning of a new chapter. Given her resilience throughout life, everyone is confident she will make the most of every single day ahead.
PON_News

Notts County sign promising goalkeeper Harry Griffiths

Notts County has just signed a promising young goalkeeper named Harry Griffiths. He's joining the Magpies after just leaving Nottingham Forest this summer.
Griffiths, aged just twenty, is signing for Meadow Lane on a two-year contract. The club holds an option to extend his stay for an additional year.
Notts is looking at the young goalie as a long-term option after Alex Bass left for Peterborough United. Griffiths is set to step in as backup for a new main goalkeeper they're working on bringing in.
The Magpies' Director of Football, Roberto Gagliardi, said Griffiths was a player the club had monitored carefully through their coaching staff: "Our goalkeeping coach Steve Collis had an opportunity to work closely with Harry when he came to train with our first team last season. Steve was impressed with Harry's natural capabilities as well as his significant potential. We're delighted to give him a platform here to thrive and develop."
Griffiths started at non-league club Horsham FC. He joined their Under-18 team when he was just 15 years old. He soon gained praise for his mature performances. For instance, he made an excellent full-stretch save during an FA Youth Cup match against Burgess Hill. His calm displays impressed the coaches at Horsham. They gave him excellent recommendations, which led to him joining AFC Wimbledon.
His trajectory continued upward when Griffiths impressed Crystal Palace scouts during a showcase match. Rejecting a Wimbledon offer, he earned a move to Palace's prestigious new £20 million academy facility in Beckenham. Mark Hawthorne, a former Palace youth player and Griffiths' coach at Horsham, described him as naturally gifted: "Harry’s physique and temperament, combined with his dedication in training, were an indication of what a good player he can be."
Griffiths polished his abilities at Palace, then went back to Wimbledon for a short time before joining Forest's academy in July 2023. His growth involved temporary moves to Burgess Hill and non-league Barwell, showcasing his adaptability and competitive spirit. Despite not breaking into Forest's senior team, Griffiths displayed enough potential for Notts to view him as a future first-team prospect.
Griffiths will start at Meadow Lane as the backup goalkeeper. Notts want to sign an experienced first-choice keeper soon. However, the club believes Griffiths' youth and recent playing time set him up nicely for future achievements.
With Alex Bass leaving a notable void between the sticks, Griffiths' arrival signals a clear intent from Notts to nurture young talent carefully. Clearly excited by the challenge, Griffiths moves across Nottingham, hoping to fulfill his significant promise as the Magpies' future No. 1.

Help welcome Harry Griffiths to Meadow Lane, and join in with the Pride of Nottingham's discussion on his arrival here at Notts County.

Notts vlogger, ARLukomski writes, "Can I get some stuff off my chest about Notts?" Read what the passionate Notts fan has to say and join in the discussion.
PON_News

Farewell Alex Bass: Notts County Keeper Makes Shock Move to Peterborough United

Alex Bass is officially on his way out of Notts County and has made the switch to Peterborough United. This wraps up his brief but pretty impressive time at Meadow Lane.
The 27-year-old goalkeeper is heading to the Sky Bet League One team for an undisclosed fee and has signed a three-year deal, with an option for an extra year.
His exit from Notts County came as a surprise to both fans and management, especially since he just had a solid season, racking up 13 clean sheets in 44 appearances. He originally joined Notts County from Sunderland last summer for a small fee.
Notts County’s co-owners Chris and Alex Reedtz, reflecting on Bass' departure, admitted the transfer wasn't initially in their plans: “While it was never our intention or desire to sell Alex during this transfer window, following strong negotiations we have agreed terms which match our high valuation of him," they said.
The Reedtz brothers further assured fans that they're actively working to secure a suitable replacement: "When taking this decision we have, of course, considered whether we can adequately replace him and work is already underway to do that." The owners also praised Bass' contribution, wishing him well for the future and thanking him "for his excellent performances."
Peterborough manager Darren Ferguson was clearly thrilled, emphasising his delight with the signing of Bass, following the recent exit of Jed Steer. "Alex is a good age for a goalkeeper, we have kept an eye on him for a while," Ferguson remarked. “I believe he will be a really good signing. He has a good presence, a good size, is mobile, and outstanding with his feet." Ferguson further underlined Bass' statistical prowess: "In terms of his data, he is the top three for everything, so that is always encouraging. He played a lot of games last season too. It is brilliant that he is now ours - it's not a loan signing, he has agreed a long-term contract." The manager openly explained his intentions for Bass to be the new number one goalkeeper at Peterborough.
The weekend was significant for Bass, who not only had to process a career-defining transfer but also marked his wedding day. “It has been pretty mad," Bass remarked candidly. "I found out Saturday that the move was on, and then I had to text my partner on the morning of our wedding day! But she was great - we both understand how things work in football and how quickly things can move." Bass expressed excitement about his new club’s style, noting similarities with Notts County: "The way the club plays is similar to Notts County, my former club, so it will be nice to get to know the lads this week at the training camp and get started."
For both clubs, the transfer represents a significant shift. Notts County now have the task of replacing a key figure, while Peterborough have secured their primary target between the sticks.

Express your thoughts on the departure of Alex Bass; the Pride of Nottingham community has already discussed and shared some points regarding this surprise move. Have your say with us!

The Pride of Nottingham community is discussing the arrival of ex-Nottingham Forest shot-stopper and academy product Harry Griffiths. Join in and have your say!
PON_News

Auf geht's Notts - a brief guide to Germany

As Notts are going on a European tour in a couple of weeks, I've put together some information for travelling fans (or anyone else who's interested). Happy reading!
SV Darmstadt 98
The “Lilien” currently play in Bundesliga 2 but have been up and down the leagues a lot in recent seasons. After being reprieved from relegation to the fourth-level Regionalliga at the end of the 2012/13 season, they embarked on an improbable success story, with two consecutive promotions taking them to the Bundesliga for the first time since 1982. After another short foray in the Bundesliga the season before last, they finished in the bottom half of last season’s Bundesliga 2 following relegation.
Darmstadt’s Bundesliga adventures have helped them grow their support base. Their Böllenfalltor ground, which used to be a typical old-school German ground with a running track and an open terrace along the touchline, has been completely rebuilt in recent seasons, with a curiously unambitious capacity of 17,800. They fill it for most home games.
The city and region
Darmstadt has a population of over 160,000 and is about 20 miles south of Frankfurt. Today, it draws a lot of students and calls itself the “city of science” as an important location for the chemical industry and the European Space Agency. It was heavily bombed by the RAF towards the end of the Second World War, wiping out its old town (which was not rebuilt as in other cities) and leading to great loss of life.
The city isn’t much of a tourist destination in itself – few traces of its old town remain and the city centre is scarred by the ugly Luisencenter shopping centre. But if you’re into 1920s architecture, the Mathildenhöhe UNESCO World Heritage Site is within walking distance of the city centre and is worth a look. The city also has an attractive palace (Schloss) at its heart, complete with beer garden. Right opposite it on the market square (Marktplatz) is the Ratskeller pub with its own microbrewery, which makes the best beer in Darmstadt and traditional food. This is also a pre-match haunt of Darmstadt fans. The city’s nightlife begins and ends with the nearby Goldene Krone pub, which often hosts live music. If you're in town a few days before the match, you're in luck - Darmstadt's Heinerfest is on from 3 to 7 July, a city festival with live music and all manner of attractions.
The rural Odenwald region is just to the east and is worth exploring if you’ve got a car. Michelstadt is small but worth a visit if you’ve got time. To the south is the Bergstraße (the “mountain road”), which runs along the mountains at the edge of the Odenwald. There’s a string of interesting towns here, from Bensheim to Weinheim and finally Heidelberg with its popular old town. To the west there’s the attractive city of Mainz too.
Matchday
The ground is a short tram ride out of the city centre – just remember to get off at Merck-Stadion rather than Böllenfalltor. This will drop you right in front of the ground behind the main stand, where there will hopefully be a range of sausage-based snacks to choose from. If you walk to the right of the main stand, you’ll find the Lilienschänke pub which serves Krombacher beer, which is sadly not local but still quite palatable.
1. FC Kaiserslautern
Kaiserslautern are a big name in Germany – the Red Devils are a founder member of the Bundesliga, were not relegated until 1996 and claimed their most recent Bundesliga title in 1998 after being promoted straight back. In total, they have won four German championships and two cups, and were losing cup finalists last season. They currently play in Bundesliga 2 and are managed by Torsten Lieberknecht, who has led both Darmstadt and Eintracht Braunschweig to the top flight.
The ground holds just short of 50,000 (and they can absolutely fill it) and was partially rebuilt for the 2006 World Cup. Walking up the hill on a matchday does feel a bit special. However, our friendly will be held on one of the training pitches in the shadow of the stadium.
The town and region
Unlike other clubs their size, Lautern are not a big city club: Kaiserslautern has a population of around 100,000, making it somewhat smaller than Mansfield. As such, the club draws its support base from throughout the Palatinate (Pfalz) region, all the way to Ludwigshafen 50 miles away on the banks of the Rhine.
I've been to Kaiserslautern a couple of times - it feels a bit like the back end of nowhere and to be honest it didn't keep me entertained for long. However, the Altstadtfest is on from 4 to 6 July, with live music and a celebration of 125 years of ***. The town is also in the middle of a wonderful wine-growing region. Bad Dürkheim isn't too far away and hosts the world's largest wine festival every September; it's a good place to try some of them out. Neustadt an der Weinstraße is Lincoln's partner town and is absolutely beautiful.
The largest US military base outside the US is situated in nearby Ramstein (not to be confused with rock band Rammstein).
The Palatinate region also has its own cuisine. One thing to look after is Saumagen (“sow's stomach”), which is pork meat, potatoes and herbs stuffed into a pig's stomach, which is then cut into slices and fried. It's a bit like a large sausage. This can also be served in a bread roll and tastes far better than it sounds!
Stuttgarter Kickers
Kickers were founder members of Bundesliga 2 in 1974 and enjoyed a couple of seasons in the top flight in the 1980s and 90s. Since relegation from Bundesliga 2 in 2001 they have tended to flit between the third and fourth level. They've never won a major honour, but they were runners-up to the German championship in 1908 and reached the cup final in 1987.
The ground sits on top of a hill just outside the city centre next to the TV tower. It holds 11,000, with the team drawing an average crowd of about 5,000.
The city and region
Stuttgart is the capital of the south-western state of Baden-Württemberg; with over 600,000 residents, it is by far the largest city of our tour. It's best known as one of the birthplaces of the motor industry and is home to Mercedes and Porsche.
Stuttgart is more leafy and sprawling than Frankfurt and its residents (Schwaben) are famous for being careful with their money (kind of like Yorkshiremen with flash cars). They're also proud of their food – Käsespätzle (egg noodles served with onions and cheese) is from here but is now popular across Germany. Maultaschen (“mouth bags”) are pasta dumplings filled with meat or spinach. The story goes that they were used to cheat God by concealing meat on the days when you're not supposed to eat it, leading to their nickname Herrgottsbescheißerle (“God cheaters”).
Although heavily damaged in the war, the city offers plenty of nooks and corners to keep you entertained. Other places worth visiting nearby are Tübingen, Esslingen and Ulm, home of the world's tallest church tower. You can also go up the TV tower next to Kickers' ground.
Travel
Airports
There are a few airports in this region, but hurry if you haven't booked yet! Lufthansa fly to Frankfurt from Birmingham and Manchester, which is very handy for the first game in Darmstadt.
Despite the name, Frankfurt Hahn is some 120 km from Frankfurt. It's a long way from the railway network and is only served by a few coach services a day, so your journey could be a long one. Nonetheless, it's very cheap to get to with Ryanair from Stansted. There's a highly irregular bus service from Hahn to Saarbrücken, which has a direct rail connection with Kaiserslautern (you can find it here). The bus to Frankfurt takes over two hours and can be found here.
Karlsruhe Baden-Baden is a small airport that is also served by Ryanair. There are fewer flights from Stansted, but it's closer to the railway network – a regular bus service takes you to nearby Rastatt or Baden-Baden, which both offer a rail connection to Stuttgart.
Stuttgart Airport offers flights from Heathrow operated by British Airways as well as some Lufthansa and Eurowings connections. It's a simple underground ride from the city centre.
Public transport
All three grounds are accessible via public transport:
Darmstadt: Take the tram no. 9 to Darmstadt Merck-Stadion. It's about a ten-minute ride from the city centre.
Kaiserslautern: The ground is about a 20-minute (uphill) walk from the main railway station, so it's probably not worth your while looking for a local bus service. According to the official *** website, the bus stops Lasallestraße, Kantstraße and Hegelstraße are closest.
Stuttgart: Take the U7 underground to Waldau (GAZI-Stadion) and you're there. Alternatively, any bus to Fernsehturm would take you straight to the TV tower and is just as close to the ground.
The match tickets for Darmstadt and Stuttgart do not include public transport. This will probably be the case for Kaiserslautern too. You'll therefore need to get your own tickets.
- If you're staying the week and getting around via public transport, it'll probably be worth your while buying a Deutschlandticket. This costs €58 per calendar month and covers all local and regional transport (but not ICE, IC or EC trains). However, bear in mind that this is a subscription and you'll have to cancel it again by 10 July if you don't want it to renew for the following month (you'll still be able to use it for the remainder of the month after cancellation). You can get one in the DB Navigator app or online.
- In Germany, local public transport is governed by region – in Frankfurt, Darmstadt, Wiesbaden and Mainz this is RMV, in Kaiserslautern, Heidelberg and Mannheim VRN and in Stuttgart VVS. If you're not getting a Deutschlandticket, I recommend downloading the RMV/VRN/VVS app and buying your tickets online there.
- You can pay bus drivers for single tickets, but this isn't possible in trams or underground trains. Ticket machines are disappearing fast too. Don't consider not paying – penalty fares are enforced!
Where to stay
If you're looking for somewhere to base yourself for all three games, Karlsruhe, Mannheim and Heidelberg offer reasonable connections to all grounds. Karlsruhe has the best connection to Stuttgart, but makes for a longer connection to Darmstadt and Kaiserslautern. Conversely, Heidelberg and Mannheim have a direct connection to both Darmstadt and Kaiserslautern, but make for a longer trip back from Stuttgart. Heidelberg has a famous old town and palace to explore, but the old town is some distance away from the railway station. Like Frankfurt, Mannheim has a much more gritty city feel but also its share of highlights and offers some mighty fine Turkish restaurants.
One final tip: if you've got Lonsdale clothing, you're best off leaving it at home. The brand has unfortunately been adopted by the local neo-nazis, so you might get some funny looks!
If you have any questions, fire away in the comments. Otherwise, gute Reise and see you in Darmstadt!
DangerousSausage

Martin Paterson: A New Era Begins at Notts County

Martin Paterson is now the head coach of Notts County Football Club. This is a fresh start for the magpies.
In his initial interview, Paterson said he was pleased to get the job. He mentioned the tough interview process and the chance to impress the club's owners, like Roberto.
"It's never easy to get an appointment now, especially with the questions and the formats of interviews," he said.
"So I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to interview and get in front of the owners, Roberto, and impress them enough to get the job."
Paterson is drawn to Notts County by its unique structure and clear vision. He values the way his ideas about football match the club's methods, as he reckons this harmony is essential for triumph.
"It's a unique club," he noted. "The owners are very clear what they want. They want people to do things in a certain way, use certain things for recruitment, play football in a certain way."
The collaborative environment at Notts County is something Paterson values highly. He emphasised the importance of structured dialogue and pre- and post-match meetings, which provide a platform for honest discussions and data-driven insights.
"It's a collaborative effort," he explained. "As a head coach, yes, I'm in charge with decisions, but when you debrief and you speak quite honestly with people around the football club who are honest, and if I'm honest, you might be able to get better performances, better results."
Paterson is excited to work alongside his assistant head coach, Andy Edwards, and other key staff members. He praised Edwards' passion for improving players, which aligns with Paterson's coaching journey.
"He's passionate. He wants to improve players, which is a massive part of our coaching journey, to make players better."
As for his style of play, Paterson is committed to maintaining the club's philosophy while introducing his own positive tweaks.
"There's not a lot that's wrong," he said. "The owners have talked massively about they want that to continue, which I agree, and we all want to dominate the ball."
Paterson's journey as a coach began at the young age of 20, driven by a knee injury and the advice to pursue coaching badges. Paterson has worked in various positions in America and the English Football League. He was an assistant manager to Phil Neville at Inter Miami. Looking back on his career, Paterson feels prepared to guide Notts County into the future. He has gained valuable knowledge and has belief in his capabilities as a manager.
As the pre-season approaches, Paterson is enthusiastic about putting his plans into action. He aims to collaborate closely with the team. His primary objective revolves around coaching the players and fostering a positive environment. This ought to provide Notts County fans with grounds for optimism before the upcoming season commences.

Continue to discuss the new head coach appointment and how this first interview might impact your initial thoughts. Join in the conversation on the Pride of Nottingham.

The new technical board is another interesting topic, which Notts fans can share their thoughts on. What do you think about this? Check out the topic here.
PON_News

Notts County Name Martin Paterson as Head Coach in Ambitious Club Restructure

Martin Paterson is now the new head coach of Notts County. This change brings thrilling updates to the coaching staff, as Andy Edwards and Sam Slocombe join the team.
Paterson, 38, transitioned from a distinguished playing career as a forward, earning 200 appearances across England’s top two divisions and 22 caps for Northern Ireland, to an emerging managerial talent with notable coaching stints both domestically and internationally.
Recently, Paterson really stood out while he was with Burton Albion, helping the team stay in League One earlier in 2024. He showed he knows how to handle tough situations and motivate the players. Before that, he made a name for himself as the assistant head coach to Michael Duff at three different EFL teams. He even got to work internationally with Phil Neville at Inter Miami in the MLS.
Speaking about Paterson’s arrival, Director of Football Roberto Gagliardi expressed considerable optimism, remarking: “We’re hugely excited to introduce Martin as our new Head Coach. Despite still being in the early stages of what we believe will be a tremendously successful coaching career, Martin has been entrusted with several senior roles, both in the UK and USA, by highly-respected figures within the game."
According to Gagliardi, Paterson’s style aligns seamlessly with the club’s footballing philosophy. “In our conversations with him, it’s been clear that he shares our vision of playing dynamic, progressive football,” he continued. “As much as the club’s DNA will remain the same in terms of our desire to dominate the ball, we believe he may bring more intensity and directness to our play. Martin wants his teams to be extremely hard-working, well-organised and difficult to play against – characteristics which were key to his success at Burton having become their manager in very challenging circumstances.”
Club owners Chris and Alex Reedtz echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting Paterson’s determination and winning mindset: “In our discussions with Martin, he has demonstrated immense passion, determination and ambition – underpinned by a fixation on winning. We’ve spoken with him at length about our vision for the club and how he’ll fit into our structure and he’s excited to play a leading role in our new approach.”
Completing the refreshed coaching staff, Andy Edwards joins as Assistant Head Coach from his role at the Football Association, where he coached England’s promising youth talents since 2017. Edwards’ coaching repertoire also includes roles with Arsenal’s academy and senior positions at Leyton Orient, backed by extensive experience gained from a respected playing career.
Gagliardi, having previously collaborated with Edwards at Leyton Orient, praised his impact, stating: “His tactical understanding and knowledge of the game left a lasting impression on me – as did his leadership qualities and ability to adapt to the very challenging circumstances the club found itself in at the time. Andy’s a widely-respected coach with a firm, fair and inclusive style which has supported the development of England’s best emerging players over the last eight years – his knowledge of whom we believe can help with our recruitment strategies."
Meanwhile, long-serving goalkeeper Sam Slocombe steps into the role of First Team Coach, extending his commitment to the club after six dedicated seasons at Meadow Lane. Currently pursuing his UEFA A Licence, Slocombe is already a fond figure at the club and has impressed owners through his recent coaching assistance.
Chris and Alex Reedtz commented warmly on Slocombe’s transition from player to coach: “Sam, of course, needs little introduction to our supporters. He’s a brilliant character with a genuine love for the club and excellent relationships within the squad. Beyond that, he’s already demonstrated his immense promise as a coach by stepping up to support our first-team staff in recent times. We’re delighted to give him the opportunity to take his first steps into a full-time coaching role and we know that, alongside Andy, he will be a tremendous support to Martin."
In an ambitious strategic change, Notts County have also formed a Technical Board, comprising Paterson, Edwards, Slocombe, Gagliardi, Director of Performance Dr David Rhodes, and the Reedtz brothers, to enhance decision-making processes around team and player performance, data insights, and overall club football strategy.
Paterson will wield ultimate responsibility for matchday decisions, guided and strengthened by the collaborative board’s insights and extensive data analysis provided in real time. This innovative approach underscores the club’s determination to leverage their leading-edge data model, developed carefully over recent years, to support a sustainable and successful future.
Explaining the formation of the Technical Board, the Reedtz brothers stated: “Over the past six years we have been gradually implementing our model at the club, a process which naturally takes time. However, we believe that now is the time to make an even stronger commitment to our model – hence our desire to create a structured framework which enables specialist individuals to give their own perspective on various aspects of the club’s football strategy.”
Martin Paterson is set to be officially introduced to the media at a press conference scheduled for Tuesday, as Notts County look ahead with renewed optimism and a clear strategy for continued progression on and off the pitch.

Pick up the discussion and join in with the Pride of Nottingham's community as we discuss the new appointment of head coach Martin Paterson.

Pride of Nottingham member Robbie asks, "Can our new head coach get Notts promoted?" What are your thoughts on this? Have your say in the discussion.
PON_News

“Positive Energy and Passion”: Ollie Norburn Explains Why He Chose Notts

Notts County acquired the services of midfielder Ollie Norburn. He made the move from a superior division. This transfer holds significance for the club.
The 31-year-old player has gained a bunch of experience from playing in the Championship and League One. Recently, he was on loan at Wigan Athletic from Blackpool.
Despite the prospect of playing in League Two appearing as a regression, Norburn believed the opportunity was far too appealing to decline.
Norburn, who's been keeping a close eye on how Notts County is doing and their goals, shared his thoughts openly. "It was a call that came out of the blue but, with me already being aware of Notts’ project and having enjoyed watching them play in recent seasons, it was something I wanted to hear more about," he reflected. Engaging discussions with Roberto Gagliardi and insights into the club's vision, including the development of a new training ground, cemented his decision.
"It ticked so many boxes and really excited me," he added with enthusiasm. "There were options to stay in League One, and to be closer to home in the northwest, so it’s not a decision I’ve taken lightly. But the project in place here and the positive energy was something I wanted to be part of."
Ollie's gratitude towards the club and its leadership was evident as he expressed, “I’d like to thank Roberto and the owners for the opportunity, and I look forward to giving everything I’ve got towards making this a successful season and helping the club get to where it wants to be.”
Known for his hard work and determination in the midfield, Norburn is set to add a fresh energy to the field. People are really looking forward to seeing how he’ll contribute to the team, he stated, "In this league, you’ve got to be able to mix it. It can’t always be pretty. The last few clubs I’ve played for have looked to control games with the ball, but you have to make sure you look after the basics, like winning tackles and second balls, especially when conditions get tough in the middle of the season."
Such pragmatic attributes come with experience, and Norburn is eager to impart his seasoned wisdom to the squad. "That comes with experience and know-how – and I’ll be looking to add that to the group, as well as being a leader who brings out the best in those around me."
Notts County's dedicated fans have really caught Norburn's eye. As someone who has yet to face Notts in his playing career, he is well aware of the fervent backing the club enjoys from its fans. "The fanbase is another big pulling factor in me coming here. I know the Notts fans turn up in their numbers home and away, and it’ll be good to put smiles on their faces with hopefully a positive season to come."
The Pride of Nottingham is excited to welcome Norburn! His arrival brings a lot of hope for Notts County as they aim to do well and improve in the upcoming season.

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PON_News

Notts County Secure Afghanistan International Maziar Kouhyar on One-Year Deal

Notts County has acquired the services of Maziar Kouhyar the Afghanistan international player. He has officially put pen to paper on a one-year contract. The club can choose to extend it for another year if they want.
The 27-year-old forward is joining Meadow Lane as a free agent after having an impactful season with Kidderminster Harriers. He really stood out last year, scoring 13 goals and grabbing 12 assists.
Kouhyar's path to professional football in Britain is truly motivating. His family departed Afghanistan in 1999 to escape the Taliban, which was a significant transition. He subsequently achieved a milestone by becoming the initial Afghan-born player to enter professional football in the UK, playing for Walsall in League One.
Just when things were going well and his contract was almost up, he ran into a serious injury that really threw a wrench in things. It was a tough time for him, but Kouhyar has done an awesome job bouncing back and is now working on rebuilding his career in the non-league scene.
Roberto Gagliardi, Notts County’s Head of Football, expressed his enthusiasm about the new signing: “Maziar’s life story and career are filled with examples of tremendous bravery, perseverance, and determination. We are thrilled to give him another chance at EFL football.” Kouhyar was first highlighted by Notts' data model, identifying him as a standout player within a robust Kidderminster side.
“Having had the chance to observe him while monitoring our loanee Ryley Reynolds, it became clear that Maziar possesses both elegance and skill on the ball," said Gagliardi. "He offers a legitimate threat in the final third, whether out wide or in central positions, as evidenced by his impressive double-figure haul of goals and assists last season.”
Gagliardi added, “We’re confident that with the momentum behind him, Maziar will successfully adjust to League Two, and we anticipate collaborating with him during this thrilling new phase of his career.”
Before this chapter, Kouhyar kicked off his pro career with Walsall after coming up through the youth ranks at Coventry City. He got to play 21 times in League One and even scored his first EFL goal. Sadly, he hit a rough patch when an injury sidelined him for quite a while.
His tenacious comeback began with a National League North opportunity at Hereford, a move which saw him eventually join York City. There, Kouhyar became a fan favourite, helping the team to National League promotion and ensuring their stability thereafter.
His professional journey gained momentum after a temporary stint at Hereford. However, the 2024-25 campaign with Kidderminster proved pivotal as he showcased his exceptional abilities and left an indelible mark.
Kouhyar has played for the Afghanistan national team on 10 occasions. He recently joined the squad for a training camp and even featured in a match against Syria.
The new signing highlights Kouhyar's career progression. It provides a reason for Notts County supporters to feel enthusiastic. People anticipate seeing his impact on matches.

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Notts County Secure Signing of Veteran Midfielder Oliver Norburn

Notts County has just locked in the signing of Oliver Norburn. The 32-year-old midfielder signed a one-year deal, and there is an option for another year if all goes well. Before this, he played at Blackpool.
The Head of Football, Roberto Gagliardi, is really excited about this signing. He said "I’ve long admired Oliver’s talents, having attempted to bring him to Portsmouth back in 2021. His subsequent transfer to Peterborough in the Championship saw him consistently showcase his abilities, with only an injury halting what could have been a significant move a year later."
Gagliardi went on to elaborate on further characteristics that set Norburn apart. He highlighted Norburn's remarkable skills in leading others and his sharp understanding of strategic manoeuvres. "Ollie is not only effective with the ball at his feet but also exudes a commanding presence on the pitch. His leadership is evident from his history of captaining every team he’s played for," he said.
The veteran's resume boasts over 200 EFL appearances, underscoring the wealth of experience he brings to the club. "His character and experience are invaluable to achieving our immediate goals, and we anticipate Ollie being a pivotal figure for us," Gagliardi added.
Currently recovering from a calf injury sustained during his loan spell at Wigan Athletic last season, Norburn is expected to regain full fitness by early August.
He will be working closely with the club’s medical team ahead of joining the rest of the squad for pre-season training later this month.
Norburn’s footballing journey began in the academies of Chelsea and Leicester, and he went on to make notable appearances in League Two with Bristol Rovers and Plymouth Argyle. A stint in the National League with Guiseley, Macclesfield, and Tranmere Rovers followed, where he played a crucial role in Rovers’ promotion back to the EFL through the play-offs.
His prowess on the pitch drew the eye of John Askey his previous boss at Macclesfield. Askey then brought him to Shrewsbury Town in League One.
Norburn had a really good run for three seasons with his team, where he often took on the role of captain. Then he made the leap to Peterborough in the Championship. He kicked things off pretty well over there and even got to wear the captain's armband for a bit. But then, a knee injury slowed him down and kind of messed up his fast track to success.
In the 2023-24 season, Norburn made his way back to League One with Blackpool and was given the captaincy. He really took charge and kept performing at a top level.
After getting a loan to Wigan Athletic, he got a chance to play more. Unfortunately, his season was pretty rough because of injuries.
Fans of Notts County are really looking forward to seeing how much of an impact Norburn will have next season. The club is determined to secure victories. Norburn boasts an impressive history and strong leadership abilities.

Read about what fans think of the arrival of Notts County's latest signing, midfielder Ollie Nurborn. Join in the conversation over in our community forum!

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PON_News

Notts County Secure Season-Long Loan for Huddersfield Midfielder Tom Iorpenda

Notts County have added to their midfield options by bringing in Tom Iorpenda on loan from Huddersfield Town for the entire season. Iorpenda is a promising young player who is highly regarded at his parent club.
The 20-year-old player joins Meadow Lane with an increasing reputation. He received Huddersfield's Academy Player of the Season award in 2023. After this achievement, the West Yorkshire club offered him a new four-year contract. This shows how highly they value him.
Iorpenda is a tall and athletic player, measuring 6 feet 3 inches. He brings energy and can play various midfield roles. Iorpenda made his senior debut in an important FA Cup match against Manchester City. Since then, he has played 15 times for the first team of Huddersfield Town.
Notts's Football Chief Roberto Gagliardi voiced his delight at acquiring the young player's talents for the forthcoming season.
“Tom is a dynamic, box-to-box midfielder with solid technique and a strong footballing education, having come through the systems at both Brighton and Huddersfield,” said Gagliardi.
“He’s been involved regularly with Huddersfield’s senior squad over the past two seasons, although a back injury around Christmas unfortunately stalled his progress last term. However, he returned to fitness in time to feature towards the end of the season, including a substitute appearance against Leyton Orient.
“He’ll be fit and ready for pre-season later this month, and we’re really looking forward to helping him continue his development in a competitive environment.
“He has all the traits you’d associate with a modern midfielder – mobility, strength, technical ability and an eye for the game. Following the success of George Abbott’s loan spell last season, we’re delighted to bring in another promising young talent with a bright future.”
At first, Iorpenda played as a winger in Brighton's academy. He then changed to midfield when he joined Huddersfield in 2021. Moving positions has worked well for him. The player has improved a lot in recent years.
He initially experienced senior football through a loan period at Hyde United. This provided him with valuable experience in the men's game. Afterwards, he re-joined Huddersfield and played against Manchester City in January 2024. Subsequently, he made appearances in the Championship against Plymouth Argyle and Ipswich Town.
The trips helped set the stage for bigger roles. The young player will aim to progress further during his stint in Nottingham.
Supporters of Notts County football club will want Iorpenda to perform well. They hope he can match the success of last year's loan players. His contribution may assist the Magpies in making progress during the upcoming season.

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🏃🏻 Join the discussion regarding the latest news that Notts County will be working with the University of Nottingham and Highfield's facilities as our training ground.
PON_News

"The Belief Was Always There" – Matty Platt on Notts’ Recent Form

Notts County defender Matty Platt has praised the team’s recent run of form, acknowledging the squad’s belief and resilience as they push for continued success in League Two.
The 27-year-old, who joined the Magpies from Bradford City in the summer, has played a key role in the club’s defensive solidity and is eager to maintain momentum.  
Speaking after the latest match, Platt reflected on the team's outstanding record of eight wins in their last ten fixtures.
"Yeah, it's been good, it's been really good," he said. "The form of late has been obviously really good. So yeah, it's been great to be around the place, all the lads are in good spirits as you'd imagine. Just looking to carry on really and go again on Thursday."  
Notts County's remarkable turnaround came after a disappointing defeat to Salford City, a result that served as a wake-up call for the squad. Platt admitted that the loss forced the players to reassess their performances and refocus on their objectives. "I think it kind of just, looking back, got us all in a headspace of we need to be better than that," he explained.
"I think we had a belief that if we all perform to the levels that we can do, this is what we can achieve, the run of form that we've been on. I think at the time there were some home truths spoken and I think everyone has clicked into gear since then and shown what we're really about."  
A significant factor in Notts County’s success has been their defensive stability, with the team recording 12 clean sheets this season, a tally bettered only by AFC Wimbledon.
Platt acknowledged the importance of keeping things tight at the back, stating: "I think at the start of the season we had some goals set for clean sheets and goals against, and stuff. I think we've been pretty good in that department, pretty solid. I've said it before in this league, it's huge. Clean sheets are what you can base success off because I think we've got goals in the team. If we can keep the back door shut, we're always going to have some level of success."  
Platt's aerial dominance has also been a crucial component of the team’s defensive strength. According to statistics, he ranks in the top 10% of League Two players for aerial duels, an aspect of his game he recognises as vital. "I think in this league you're always going to come up against teams that are going to put it on you.
They're going to play long balls up to physical strikers and no matter who you are, you've got to deal with that," he noted. "Obviously aerial duels are huge for that. I think also what we are really good at is winning the second as well. If one of us at the back do win the first header, that's great, but obviously the second ball is just as equally as important."  
Looking ahead, Notts County face a challenging away fixture against Port Vale, who are unbeaten in League Two this year. Platt acknowledged the difficulty of the task but expressed confidence in his team’s ability. "It's a tough place to go but I think the form we've been in, we're really confident going into the game. If we keep on doing what we're doing, there's no reason why we can't go there and pick up a result," he said.  
The match will also be televised, an aspect that does not faze Platt. "Yes and no," he said when asked if it still feels special to play in front of a national audience. "I suppose you might get a few more messages after the game or before the game than what you might do usually. But yeah, it's one of those things. As you say, there's so many games that are on TV these days, especially us this year, we've had a lot of half-12 kick-offs on a Saturday. So, yes, I suppose it's nothing new to us."  
Despite the team’s impressive form, Platt insists that discussions about a potential title push are premature. "No, I think it's one of those. I think at this stage in the season there's so much football left, there's so many points still to play for that it's just the same case as always and just focus on the next game," he stated. "Keep trying to pick up three points and if that means that we put some pressure on Walsall, so be it. But not at this stage, I think it's too early to be thinking about that."  
With Notts County in excellent form and confidence running high, Platt and his teammates will be looking to extend their impressive run and make a statement against Port Vale.
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Notts County Await News on Jodi Jones & David McGoldrick Fitness Ahead of Port Vale Clash

Notts County's head coach Stuart Maynard praised his team's recent displays. He highlighted their solid defence and clinical attack as they chase promotion.
The Magpies beat Morecambe 2-0 at Meadow Lane after a vital 2-1 away win against Gillingham. With eight victories from their last ten matches, Notts County are one of the division's form teams.
Maynard feels their accomplishments stem from players returning from injuries and the squad's steadfast belief.
“I think the squad injury list coming down and bodies coming back in recent weeks has made a big difference,” Maynard said. “I think we've performed to a very high level all season. I think we're in really good form, the confidence is high, and there is a real belief within the group, which we have had all year.”  
While Maynard acknowledges that results have not always reflected performances, he insists his team has deserved more from their losses and draws, barring the defeat to Salford.  
“If you take away games that we have lost or drawn this year, we have deserved something from them,” he stated. “I know it is easy to say that, but when you watch back and analyse, and you look at the chances we have created within those games and then the chances conceded, I think we deserve something.”    
Notts County have been very good at stopping the other team from scoring lately. They've managed to keep their goal safe 12 times this season. Maynard thinks this is key to doing well.  
“I am a massive believer that clean sheets bring you real success,” he said. “We are always going to score goals in the way we play, the way we set up, the way that we try and attack every game to win every game. But defensively, it is a huge credit to the whole group in the way that we have defended.”  
Maynard applauded his team's dedication. He emphasised their readiness to make physical sacrifices, especially toward the end of the Morecambe match.
Although Notts County celebrated a remarkable victory, concerns arose when Jodi Jones had to leave the match prematurely. Maynard mentioned that assessments were underway for Jones and David McGoldrick.
“We are still hoping that it is not going to be long-term,” he said. “We will know a bit more in the next couple of days. But I think the lads that came on had a real impact, Charlie Whittaker especially. He scored and was excellent all afternoon. I am really pleased for him, as a youngster to come in and score his first EFL goal – a proud moment for him and his family.”  
Next up for Notts County is a trip to Vale Park to face Port Vale, who remain unbeaten this year and have lost just twice at home all season. Despite the challenge, Maynard insists his team will approach the game with the same attacking mindset.  
“We do not look too far ahead,” he explained. “It is all about going to Port Vale now and trying to get three points. Every game we go into, we go in to win. We are a positive-minded management team, and every game we believe we can win.”  
Maynard admitted Port Vale will offer a difficult challenge; however, he is sure about his squad's capabilities.  
“The next game, as you are in the run-in now, is always the toughest test,” he said. “Port Vale are up there with us, fighting for promotion. Morecambe are down there fighting for their lives. Everyone is fighting for something in such a tight division.”  
Notts County wants to make up for losing 1-0 at home to Port Vale earlier this season. They will try hard to play better and get a good result in the next match. Maynard thinks his team should have done better in that game.  
“We lost 1-0 at home to Port Vale early in the season,” he recalled. “It was a game that we believed, when we watched it back and analysed it, even on the day, that we deserved something from. Whether that was a point or three points, you could argue either way, but we definitely did not deserve to lose that game.”  
Feeling pretty good and riding on a wave of success, Notts County is all set to keep their winning streak going as they face off against Port Vale.
If they can keep up their strong defence and keep pushing forward with determination, Maynard's team will feel confident about winning another important game and grabbing three valuable points.
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Nick Tsaroulla: 'Notts County Fans Made It Unforgettable' After First Goal

Nick Tsaroulla was full of joy after scoring his first goal for Notts County in their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Gillingham.
The wing-back, who arrived from Crawley Town in the summer, finally opened his account for the Magpies, helping his side continue their strong form in League Two.  
Speaking after the game, Tsaroulla expressed his delight at both the team's performance and his long-awaited goal. “Yes, we're all buzzing. It's a tough place to come. So, these are the games that we want to win if we want to reach what we want to reach and climb up,” he said.  
The win at Priestfield Stadium marked Notts County’s seventh victory in nine games, further solidifying their position near the top of the table. Tsaroulla emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum as the season progresses. “We've got to carry on the momentum, keep going with it and keep performing the way we have,” he added.  
Notts County’s away form has been particularly impressive, with the team showcasing resilience and grit on the road. Tsaroulla acknowledged the squad's ability to dig deep when playing at challenging venues. “We've got a really strong squad, and we've got a lot of grit. We know how hard it is coming away to teams like this, and we have to dig in and grind it out and do whatever we can to win,” he explained.  
His goal, which came from a well-worked set-piece, was a moment of personal satisfaction. After a period of near misses, the 25-year-old was relieved to finally find the back of the net. “Yes, finally. It's been a while coming. I could feel it. I could sniff it out. We obviously have our set-piece routine and the ball kind of came to me quite awkwardly. But I did my best to kind of scoop it and get my body right and put it in the net,” he described.  
The goal was met with a wave of emotion, though Tsaroulla made sure to keep his feelings in check. Unlike his famous tearful reaction after scoring for Crawley against Leeds United in the FA Cup, this time he held back. “That was a special one. This is a special one as well, but for many different reasons. There's no tear. I've had too much banter from my friends for crying on camera, so I've tried not to do that now,” he joked.  
While Tsaroulla's strike was crucial in setting Notts on their way, veteran forward David McGoldrick also made an impact with a stunning goal. Tsaroulla was full of praise for his teammate. “He's just doing what he does best, isn't it? That's just routine for him. Really unbelievable finish. So, yes, you play with players like that. It's a pleasure,” he said.  
Despite a nervy ending to the match, Tsaroulla had already been substituted and had to endure watching from the sidelines. He admitted it was a stressful experience. “It was a tough watch. I felt sick watching it. It's a lot easier when you're playing, where you've got more control, and you can influence it,” he said. However, he had faith in his teammates to see out the win. “We've got a big squad and it's times where people need to step up, and we did that, and we got the win.”  
The victory gives Notts County a valuable opportunity to regroup, with a break in their fixture schedule allowing players to rest and recover. Tsaroulla stressed the importance of keeping standards high during this time. “We've got to keep training hard, keep recovering, looking after ourselves and we know what football is like. We go again, and you're only as good as your last game,” he stated.  
With his first goal for the club now secured, Tsaroulla will be hoping to build on his performance and contribute further as Notts County continue their promotion push. “This is my first goal for this club, and hopefully it's the first of many,” he said.  
As the Magpies prepare for their next challenge, the determination within the squad remains strong. With Tsaroulla settling in well and the team hitting their stride, Notts County fans will be optimistic about what lies ahead.
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New Faces, Big Ambitions: How Notts County Are Preparing for the Run-In

Transfer deadline day leads to frantic deals and intense negotiations. At Meadow Lane, Stuart Maynard's calm leadership created a strong sense of control. Notts County approached this window with clarity, ensuring their squad was balanced and well-prepared for the crucial months ahead. With the window now shut, Maynard took the time to reflect on the club’s business, the squad’s depth, and what lies ahead as Notts push towards their ultimate goal.  
The most notable addition on deadline day was Mai Traoré, a left-footed forward whose arrival strengthens Notts’ attacking options. While some may see similarities between Traoré and Alassane Jatta, Maynard was quick to highlight their differences. Jatta has impressed with his mentality and ability to adjust quickly to English football, whereas Traoré is a more direct, pace-driven forward who thrives on running in behind and taking defenders on. There is no expectation of an immediate impact; instead, Maynard acknowledged that Traoré will need time to adapt to Notts County’s style of play. Fans have seen before how new signings can take a while to settle, particularly those unfamiliar with English football. But the belief in Traoré’s potential is clear, and with patience, he could become a key figure in Notts’ push for promotion.  
With Traoré arriving to bolster the front line, Maynard appears satisfied with his attacking options. Having three strikers with different skill sets is a major boost at this stage of the season. Jatta’s physical presence and ability to drive at defenders have already proved valuable, while David McGoldrick’s experience and intelligence make him an essential link between midfield and attack. McGoldrick’s role remains unique in the squad, offering an ability to drop deep, dictate play, and create overloads in midfield. Maynard hinted that other players could step into that role if needed, but McGoldrick’s influence is hard to replicate. Traoré’s presence adds another layer to Notts’ attack, and while his game is still developing, his raw speed and strength offer something different, particularly against sides that sit deep.  
Charlie Whittaker was another player who caught Maynard’s attention. The young player from Everton's youth system played his first full match in the senior team against Gillingham. His performance didn't attract major attention, but his efforts were acknowledged. While it wasn’t a headline-grabbing performance, his contributions did not go unnoticed. He effectively picked up second balls, linked play, and made intelligent runs to create space for others. Maynard spoke highly of his work ethic and movement, suggesting that as he continues to develop in training, he could play a more significant role as the season progresses.  
Another deadline-day signing, Will Jarvis, has already begun making an impact from the bench. Maynard admitted that Jarvis is still working towards full match fitness, having not played regular football at Hull City earlier in the season. However, his ability to take players on and make quick decisions in the final third has already been evident. There is excitement about what he can bring, but as with Traoré, Maynard stressed the importance of patience. Notts County’s system is demanding, and players need time to fully adapt. Once he reaches peak sharpness, Jarvis could become a vital option, especially in matches where a spark off the bench is required. 

Defensively, the emergence of Zac Johnson has been a talking point. The young centre-back made an assured league debut at Carlisle and has shown promising signs of development. However, with Rod McDonald performing at such a high level, opportunities may be limited for now. Maynard praised Johnson’s leadership qualities and positional awareness, which are rare attributes in a young defender. He made it clear that Johnson’s time will come, but with McDonald in commanding form, there is no need to rush his progression.  
McDonald’s resurgence has been a major positive for Notts, particularly given the defensive injuries the squad has endured this season. With Lewis Macari and Lucas Ness sidelined, McDonald has stepped up, providing stability at the back. His ability to handle difficult conditions and strong aerial presence have made him indispensable. Maynard acknowledged that Macari could return before the season ends, which would be a timely boost, while Ness and Scott Robertson are expected to be back in time for pre-season. Managing defensive options will be key in the coming weeks, and having McDonald in top form has certainly eased the pressure.  
Now that the transfer window has closed, Maynard and his team are concentrating fully on the remaining matches. He highlighted how crucial it is to have a deep squad, especially in League Two, where the gruelling season can exhaust players. The ability to make changes and maintain intensity across 90 minutes has already been a key factor in recent results, and Maynard now has the luxury of options in multiple positions.  
There was also an emphasis on squad mentality. Maynard acknowledged that not everyone will make the matchday squad every week, but keeping every player engaged and motivated will be crucial. A team brimming with players prepared to chip in whenever needed might prove pivotal towards the season's climax.  
With a crucial home game against Morecambe approaching, Notts County find themselves in a strong position. Maynard’s measured, confident approach suggests a team fully in control of its destiny. The next few months will define the season, and with a settled squad, a clear tactical identity, and a belief in their ability, Notts have everything in place to make a real push. Fans will know that League Two is unpredictable, and nothing is guaranteed, but there is an air of quiet confidence around the club. Now, it’s about translating that belief into results on the pitch.
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Read Stuart Maynard's thoughts on the 2-1 away win against Gillingham and how David McGoldrick keeps surprising him, only on Pride of Nottingham.
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Stuart Maynard Hails McGoldrick’s “Infectious” Work Rate After Notts’ Fourth Away Win

Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard has hailed his side’s impressive performance after securing a 2-1 away win over Gillingham at Priestfield Stadium.
The victory marks four consecutive away wins for the Magpies, who are in fine form following their 1-0 triumph over Carlisle United earlier in the week.
Maynard was full of praise for his squad’s first-half display, highlighting their control after withstanding early pressure from the hosts.  
“I thought first half we were absolutely outstanding,” Maynard said. “I thought we controlled the game, not from minute one to be fair, but after 10 minutes. They come out really fast, we knew they’d put it on us, we knew we’d have to weather it a little bit. Long balls, balls in the channel, but after that, I think we took control of the total game, and we probably should have been three or four up, and it should have been more of a comfortable win.”
Despite Notts County’s dominance, Gillingham responded in the second half, making the final moments tense. Maynard acknowledged the threat posed by the opposition, particularly when a third goal could not be found to seal the game.  
“They come out in the second half, and they made a fist of it, and they had a go. You always know that if you don’t get the third and put the game to bed, there’s always that slight little worry at the end.”
Alassana Jatta and David McGoldrick continued their fine goalscoring form, with McGoldrick’s finish drawing particular admiration from Maynard.  
“Didzy’s finish though, it’s like Premier League, it’s ridiculous,” he said. “Dink the goalie, the net… you’re just waiting for the net to nestle and it did. And yes, every week he just keeps going again and again and again, showing more quality, more work ethic, and it’s infectious.”  
McGoldrick and Jatta are now level on 13 goals each, and Maynard believes the duo’s selflessness has been key to Notts County’s attacking success.  
“They’re both battling it out for the Golden Boot, I think, and they deserve it. Their work ethic together, they’re not selfish—when one’s in, they’ll square it to each other. They just want to win, if I’m being honest. Three points is all that matters.”
Alongside their attacking play, Maynard also praised the importance of set pieces, with Nick Tsaroulla’s goal proving decisive.  
“I’m delighted for Tsaroulla again. It’s another set-piece. It’s something that we want to add to our game, we need to score from set-pieces when games are tight,” he said. “I thought today we created enough chances in open play to probably score enough goals within open play, but when you score from a set-piece it’s brilliant, and it’s another routine that he’s worked on the training ground.”
Maynard was also pleased to welcome the return of the club captain following an enforced absence.  
“He’s just been incredible. To be out for a year with his ACL, to work as incredibly hard as he did… and then to come back, he’s just a machine,” he said. “It’s frustrating that he had to miss a game through the elbow, which when you watch it back, it’s a straight red. But look, he’s back with us, and he was incredible again today.”  
Charlie Whittaker was given a starting role, and Maynard was impressed by the way he handled the occasion.  
“I thought it was excellent, everything we required of him,” he said. “We knew that this was going to be a game on a difficult pitch, every time we passed it we needed runners beyond the front. I thought he’d run beyond the front to narrow him up, and, then we got out wide. Jodie Jones kept getting on the ball because of that movement from Charlie.”
With seven wins in their last nine games, Notts County’s form is strong, but Maynard insists his players must remain focused.  
“We’ve just got to keep going now. We can’t get ahead of ourselves; we’ve just got to look to the next game now. This one’s done, it’s another three points, we’ve got to make sure that we recover,” he said. “We’ve got a full week of prep which we need with the schedule that we’ve just had.”  
The support from the travelling Notts County fans was also acknowledged, especially given the difficult journey many faced.  
“They’re our 12th man, they’ve been here all season. It’s an open stand here, but you could hear them singing from minute one, getting behind the lads and driving them on to get that big important three points,” Maynard said. “Our fans have been incredible all year and I thank them for all the efforts to get here because it’s not easy to get here.”  
With momentum on their side, Notts County will now turn their attention to their next home fixture, hoping to continue their strong run under Maynard’s guidance.
Notts County have secured the signing of forward Mai Traore, pending visa clearance! Get to know our latest attacking addition and what he brings to the squad. Read more on Pride of Nottingham now!
Mai Traore is set to join Notts County, pending visa clearance! Join the discussion on Pride of Nottingham and share your thoughts on our new forward. Will he be the missing piece in our attack?
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Notts County Secure the Signing of Guinean Forward Mai Traore

Notts County have bolstered their attacking options with the signing of Guinean forward Mai Traore from Norwegian side Fredrikstad.
The 25-year-old has joined Meadow Lane for an undisclosed fee, pending visa and international clearance.  
Traore has put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half-year contract, with the club retaining the option to extend his stay by a further year. Known for his pace, power, and eye for goal, the forward brings top-flight experience from Scandinavia, having played over 60 times in Norway’s elite division.  
Director Richard Montague expressed his delight at securing the highly-rated striker, believing Traore will add a new dimension to Notts County’s attacking play.  
“Mai is a really exciting addition for us. He’s quick, powerful, and possesses a strong ability both to score goals and create opportunities for his teammates,” Montague said.  
“He also works incredibly well in a pressing system, his link-up play is strong, and as a left-footed player, he gives us an extra attacking threat. While he has already proved himself in Scandinavia, we believe there’s still plenty more to come from him, and we feel we’re the perfect club to help him reach his full potential.”  
Traore began his European football journey in Sweden, signing for third-tier side Vasalunds IF at the age of 19. His early performances in their development teams paved the way for a breakthrough 2020 campaign, where he was instrumental in Vasalunds' promotion push, netting an impressive 23 goals and providing eight assists in 29 matches.  
His remarkable performance caught the attention of top-tier clubs, leading to Viking FK from Norway securing his signature. Traore went on to make 36 top-flight appearances for Viking before being loaned out to Tromsø for the 2023 season, where he continued his development in Norway’s top tier.  
In January 2023, he made a permanent move to Fredrikstad, and now, just a year later, he is set to embark on the next stage of his career in England with Notts County.  
His arrival at Meadow Lane provides the Magpies with another attacking option as they push for success in League Two. With his combination of pace, physicality, and finishing ability, supporters will be eager to see how he adapts to the English game.  
As Traore awaits the finalisation of his paperwork, excitement is already building among the Notts County faithful, who will be hoping their new forward can make an immediate impact.
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Match Report: Nick Tsaroulla and David McGoldrick on Target as Notts Beat Gillingham

Notts County secured a battling 2-1 victory over Gillingham at Priestfield Stadium, extending their impressive start to the League Two campaign.
First-half goals from Nick Tsaroulla and David McGoldrick gave the Magpies a commanding lead, but a late strike from Joseph Gbode set up a tense finish.  
The visitors controlled possession with 56% but had to weather periods of pressure from Gillingham, who registered four shots on target compared to Notts County’s three.
In a feisty contest, both sides racked up the fouls, with the Magpies committing 11 and receiving four yellow cards, while Gillingham were penalised 13 times and had five players booked.   
Stuart Maynard’s side came out with attacking intent, and their early pressure paid off in the 12th minute. Jodi Jones, a constant threat down the wing, delivered a pinpoint cross that found Nick Tsaroulla, who expertly steered placed the ball past Glenn Morris to give Notts the lead.  
The visitors continued to push forward, forcing Gillingham into some last-ditch defending. Just before the half-hour mark, McGoldrick doubled the advantage. The experienced forward took advantage of a defensive mistake, scoring from close range after a good play by Matt Palmer and Charlie Whitaker.  
Gillingham struggled to break down a resolute Notts defence in the first half, with their best effort coming from Asher Agbinone, whose long-range strike was comfortably saved by Alex Bass.  
Neil Harris made a change at the break, bringing on Joseph Gbode to add more attacking impetus. The Gills came out with greater intensity, and Armani Little tested Bass with a powerful effort from distance in the 62nd minute.  
Notts made substitutions of their own, with Kellan Gordon and Curtis Edwards introduced to freshen up the midfield, while William Jarvis replaced Jones.  
Despite their control of possession, Notts were given a scare in the 80th minute when Gillingham pulled a goal back. Little whipped in a dangerous corner, and Gbode rose highest to guide a header into the bottom corner, setting up a nervy final 10 minutes.  
Gillingham pushed for an equaliser, with Sam Gale’s late header forcing a save from Bass, but Notts held firm. The visitors had a couple of opportunities to kill the game off, with McGoldrick seeing a shot blocked and Matty Platt heading narrowly over from a corner.   
The final whistle sparked celebrations among the travelling Notts fans, who saw their side withstand a spirited second-half display from Gillingham. The Magpies’ ability to take their chances proved the difference, as they made it back-to-back league victories.  
With another three points secured, Stuart Maynard’s men continue their push at the top end of League Two, showing resilience alongside their attacking quality.
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How Curtis Edwards’ Journey Took Him from the Northern League to League 2 Stardom

Curtis Edwards has had far from an easy path to making it as a professional footballer. From working on construction sites to lining up against Jack Wilshere and Mesut Özil, his story is more interesting than most. After a spell on the sidelines, Curtis Edwards is now back at Meadow Lane, ready to make his mark in the second half of the season. I believe he's arrived at the perfect time to help push the team forward.
But before we get to the present, let’s go back-right back-to when Curtis was just starting his football journey. He spent his teenage years in Middlesbrough’s academy on a scholarship with the Teesside club, but at the age of 18, like many aspiring footballers, he was released after failing to secure a professional contract. He then went on trial at various league clubs but was unsuccessful. After failing to impress even League Two sides like Hartlepool, he thought that was it.  
Eventually, he signed for Darlington in the Northern League Division One at the start of the 2013/14 season. However, it was only part-time, and he quickly found himself spending more time on building sites, focusing on earning money to enjoy the nights out he felt he had missed. He admitted that football wasn’t his priority at that time, which was reflected in his frequent club changes, signing for Thornaby, Spennymoor Town, and then Thornaby again, meaning he finished the season playing in the Northern League Second Division, five tiers below League Two.  
But the cold early mornings and the aches and pains from construction work soon made him reconsider his future. He knew he had talent and wasn’t quite ready to give up on his dream of becoming a professional footballer. So, at the age of 21, he made the bold decision to move to Ytterhogdal in the Swedish third division after fellow Teessider Brian Wake secured him a trial. With renewed determination, he quickly impressed at the club and earned himself a contract. For the first time, he produced consistently strong performances, scoring nine goals in 20 matches. Those performances were about to be rewarded in a way not even Curtis could have dreamt of. Perhaps there was a slice of good fortune, but that’s football, isn’t it?  
In the summer of 2016, midway through the Swedish season and during an international break, Curtis was invited to play in a friendly match for Östersunds, a newly promoted Allsvenskan side, as they were short on numbers. He played in two friendlies and impressed manager Graham Potter so much that he was offered a contract for the rest of the season. He made his competitive debut just days later in a 4-0 win over Sundsvall and went on to feature regularly in the remaining fixtures. He had stepped up from the third tier seamlessly, crediting the technical, possession-based style of play, similar to what he had learned in the Boro academy, as a key factor in his success.  
However, it was the 2017 season when Curtis truly started to shine. He played in nearly all of Östersunds’ matches and helped them to a fifth-place finish, the highest in the club’s history. That year also saw him win his first trophy, as Östersunds lifted the Svenska Cupen after a 4-1 victory over Norrköping, with Curtis playing the full match. Coupled with the club’s European success, he found himself facing top-quality opponents such as Raúl García and Aymeric Laporte from Athletic Club, Salomon Kalou and Vedad Ibišević from Hertha Berlin, and eventually Arsène Wenger’s Arsenal side, packed with internationals, in the knockout stages. By this point, he truly felt like a professional footballer, frequently recognised around Östersund and receiving compliments from fans.

By mid-2019, after making over 100 appearances for Östersunds, his career took another step forward as he joined Djurgården, throwing himself into a title race. Just days after signing, he scored on his debut in a 4-0 win over IK Sirius. Ten wins, two losses, and a draw in the final match of the season secured the title by a single point over Malmö and Hammarby. Ahead of that decisive game, he described winning the league as the greatest moment of his career, admitting that he had initially moved to Sweden simply for a new experience, never expecting his journey to take him to the top division, let alone a title challenge. The following season, he continued to play regularly, helping Djurgården finish in a respectable fourth place. He also made his Champions League debut, featuring in a qualifying match against Ferencváros, although they were ultimately eliminated.  
After seven years in Sweden, his time there came to an end in 2022 when he moved to Norway. There, he helped Stabæk FC, who had just been relegated to the First Division (second tier), secure promotion back to the Eliteserien with a second-place finish. Finally, in 2024, he returned to England, joining Woking for the second half of the season. His performances impressed both their fans and manager. Michael Doyle, the former captain of Notts County, hoped to keep him for a longer period. However, Curtis chose Meadow Lane as his next destination, and it appears he arrived at the perfect time.  
Over the summer, Notts lost two key players in Jim O’Brien and John Bostock. Both had different playing styles and personalities, but they played significant roles in the midfield, maintaining high standards and morale. Their departures left a gap in terms of experience, but looking at Curtis’s career, it’s easy to see why Notts believed he would be a valuable addition to the squad. At 30 years old, he still has plenty to offer.  
In his early appearances, we’ve already seen glimpses of his quality, both on and off the ball. Technically, he looks very comfortable in possession, but he also works tirelessly, supporting the strikers and pressing the opposition. Just as he did in Scandinavia, he appears to fit Notts’ style perfectly. Unfortunately, an injury sustained against Accrington means we won’t see him in action for a while, but his experience could prove vital in the second half of the season, especially if Notts are pushing for promotion.  
After everything he has experienced and overcome, and with all the big matches and competitions he has played in, Curtis Edwards could have a major impact on Notts County’s season. I can’t wait to see him back in action at Meadow Lane!
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Jacob Bedeau commended Notts County fans for transforming Meadow Lane into an impregnable fortress. Your support is key to the team’s success. Let's maintain a vibrant momentum! Join the Pride of Nottingham today!
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Jacob Bedeau Praises Notts County’s Defence and the Fans’ Role in Home Dominance

Notts County defender Jacob Bedeau has highlighted the team’s defensive improvement this season, crediting the collective effort from the squad in maintaining their impressive form at the back.  
Since arriving at Meadow Lane in the summer after leaving Morecambe, the 25-year-old has become a key part of Stuart Maynard’s side, forming a strong partnership with Matty Platt and helping to protect goalkeeper Alex Bass.
Reflecting on the team’s defensive performances, Bedeau acknowledged a strong start, followed by a period where standards slipped slightly, before regaining solidity in recent weeks.  
"We've been really tight at the back, we started the season well as a defence. I think it was a little bit in the middle where we conceded a few more goals than we probably would have liked. But it's good to be back to that kind of solid defensive shape," Bedeau said.  
Last season, Notts County struggled defensively, conceding more goals than they would have liked. However, a summer of recruitment, including Bedeau’s arrival, has helped transform the team into one of the strongest defensive units in the division. He emphasised that it has been a team-wide effort rather than just down to the new additions.  
"I think obviously after last year there's a big emphasis on, as a team, probably defending better than we did last year. So I think everyone carries that burden. It's not just the players that have been signed. I think if you look through the team, everyone works so hard defensively, right up to AJ at the top of the pitch who works his socks off chasing and pressing, which really enables us to be able to defend a lot easier."  
Notts County have been particularly resolute at home, conceding just eight goals at Meadow Lane this season, the best record in the division. Bedeau believes the club’s home form is heavily influenced by the fans and the atmosphere they create.  
"You know, probably the fans. I think it's such a tough place to come for opposing teams, especially when they're really behind us and supporting us. It feels like a fortress almost," he said. "And I think we've been unlucky to not have won more games at home. I think we've drawn quite a few, and we had a couple of losses early in the season. And if you look back at those games, there's a few contentious calls that could have gone our way and even the Bromley game at the weekend, I think it was their only real chance that they scored from."  
Despite his strong defensive displays, Bedeau is still searching for his first goal for the club, something his teammates have been quick to remind him about.  
"I know, I know. Hopefully it's coming. I get a bit of stick from some of the lads because obviously Platty's got a few. Even Rod nearly scored the other day as well. I am desperate for a goal, but at the same time as long as we're winning and clean sheets, that's the most important thing for me."  
Notts County have won six of their last eight matches, a run of form that has put them into the automatic promotion places. Bedeau has been enjoying his football at the club and believes the team’s style of play makes every game exciting.  
"Yes, I think even from playing against Notts last year, you can see that the style of play is enjoyable to be a part of. You go into games really looking forward to playing, whereas at times at other clubs you might be like, it might be a bit of a slog today. But here it's really enjoyable, really fun. The players I get to play with are top level. So yeah, I've just really enjoyed my time here."  
Looking ahead, Notts County face a busy fixture schedule, with a mix of league and cup matches coming up. Bedeau, however, insists that the packed calendar does not faze the squad.  
"Not really. I think at this stage of the season, you know the games are going to come thick and fast and all you want to do is pick up results. You don't even think about the days you're playing to be honest. You just want to get the games done and take the three points and see where you are come the end of the season."  
One of the upcoming fixtures sees Notts County face Bedeau’s former club Morecambe, who are currently struggling in League Two. While he wishes his old side well, he is fully focused on securing a win when they meet.  
"Yeah, do you know, I've got a lot of love for the club. They gave me a lot while I was there. So obviously, I hope they get out of the situation they're in. And with Derek Adams at the helm, there's a good chance because he knows this division, and he knows how to get out of sticky situations really. I wish them all the best but obviously when we play them here in a couple of weeks, hopefully we get the three points."  
Notts County’s recent form has put them in contention for promotion, but Bedeau is not getting carried away just yet.  
"Not really, no. I think you just have to focus on yourself because there's so many teams in and around it. And if you look at years gone, you look at Walsall last year who made a run at the end, Doncaster as well last year. So teams can come from anywhere and almost oust you. So you just have to keep on top of what you're doing. And then maybe when there's five games to go, maybe you'll have a look down and say, right, what do we need to be where we want to be? So I think it's just all about picking up the points we need at the moment to get where we want to get to."  
Promotion has been the goal since the start of the season, and Bedeau confirmed that the squad is fully committed to achieving that aim.  
"Yes, I think when we came in the summer on the first day, in the first meeting, the gaffer set out what our aim was for the season. So, we're not shying away from that. It's what we want, and I think as a group of players everyone has come to this club to achieve that. So obviously we know what we need to do, what we want to do, but at the same time we just take it game by game, and hopefully we'll achieve our goal."  
With a strong defence, growing momentum, and a clear objective in mind, Bedeau and Notts County are well on their way to making their promotion ambitions a reality.
Curtis Edwards shares his thoughts on Notts County’s hard-fought win over Carlisle United and the fans’ incredible support on his return to the starting XI. Read the full interview now on Pride of Nottingham!
Join the match discussion on Pride of Nottingham ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Gillingham - see what fellow fans are saying and share your own thoughts!
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Curtis Edwards Humbled by Notts County Fans’ Reception in Return from Injury

Curtis Edwards made his long-awaited return to action as Notts County secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Carlisle United.
The 31-year-old midfielder, who had been sidelined since September with an ankle injury, came off the bench to help his side see out the win.  
Speaking after the game, Edwards expressed his delight at being back on the pitch and contributing to a crucial victory.  
"Yeah, obviously, like you say, best game of a bit longer period in a long time," Edwards said. "So 1-0 up, it's nice to come in and show some energy and try and help the lads see out the win, which we did, so it's very pleasing."  
His return comes after a difficult spell on the sidelines, with Edwards missing over four months of action. During his recovery, he spent time alongside fellow injured teammates Jodi Jones and Conor Grant, both of whom also recently returned to the squad.  
"Yeah obviously three to four months, I think I was a bit longer than them two," Edwards explained. "They've been back three, four weeks now, so I'm just getting up to speed. It'll take a few more games to get more minutes, but I'm feeling good."  
The match itself was a tense affair, with Notts County taking an early lead before Carlisle applied increasing pressure in the second half. Edwards admitted it was a challenge to step in and match the intensity of the game.  
"Yeah, it's tough. Always coming into a match takes a lot to get up to the speed, so that's why you just have to try and come in and work as hard as you can, which we all try and do," he said. "Especially that tempo game, Carlisle made it difficult second half, but it was good that we got the win."  
Despite spending a relatively short time at Meadow Lane since joining Notts County, Edwards has already become a favourite among the fans. Their support was evident when he was introduced from the bench, something the midfielder was keen to acknowledge.  
"Yeah, first of all I just want to thank the fans," he said. "Like you say, I've been here a short period, but the support they've given has been amazing. I think you heard it tonight, so that's pleasing."  
The final minutes of the match saw Notts County under heavy pressure, with Carlisle dominating possession. The Magpies had opportunities to extend their lead on the counter but ultimately had to rely on their defensive resilience to secure all three points.  
"Yeah, it would have been nice to get the second," Edwards admitted. "Obviously a few chances in the first half as well. Hopefully in the next games we can come in with a better lead, but like you say, see if we can make something of the counters in the next games."  
With 19 league matches remaining, Notts County now sit third in the League Two table. However, Edwards insists the squad is not getting ahead of themselves.  
"Yeah, a lot of football," he said. "I think we just need to stop looking at the table, it's so tight. We just need to focus on the next game and keep performing the way we have, keep trying to pick up as many points as we can, and then see where we end up."  
As Edwards continues to build match fitness, his return comes at a vital time for Notts County’s promotion push. With his experience and versatility in midfield, he could play a key role in the club’s ambitions for the remainder of the season.
Join the match discussion on Pride of Nottingham ahead of tomorrow's game against Gillingham! Share your thoughts on Stuart Maynard’s tactics or simply your predictions for the match.
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