Rod McDonald is solid at the back. He’s found his space and made it his own. I can't see how he can be dropped when he's playing this well. He’s one of the first names I’d put on the team sheet.

When McDonald signed, I always thought it would be him and Platt competing for the middle CB spot. He did well last season playing at RCB more often than not even though he’s left-footed and it was awkward at times, but this season he’s had his chance to play in the middle and he’s been really solid. Platt has definitely got to work hard to get back into the side, but having two really good players challenging each other is a really good problem to have.

@menzinho, i did not think he would be a regular player. i thought it would be jacob bedeau, matty platt and lewis macari. i thought his time would be further limited when we signed lucas ness and this season with sonny aljofree coming in. the defence looks pretty much set, and it looked like he would only be cover for injury or used as rotation but he has really flipped the tactics book.

i cant see him being replaced easily, even when matty platt does return but its a good problem to have.

The middle of the back three is a key area and Rod has helped us find balance. His positional sense is good and he is rarely dragged out of position. He also shows a calm manner that helps younger players like Bedeau grow into the role. I am not panicking about Platt’s injury; it gives us time to map out how the trio should work when he returns. The spine of the team is looking stronger with Rod in the middle, not simply because of form but because his all-round game supports the whole unit. If he keeps performing, Notts have a reliable base to build on.

Rod McDonald is included in the League 2 team of the week after his performance against Barnet.

Stanway must have had a hell of a game

Another good performance from Rod against Swindon. He's becoming Mr Consistency. Matty Platt will have to work hard to get on the bench near mind the starting eleven. Martin Paterson won't mind that at all.