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Notts County midfielder Dan Crowley has emerged as a key figure in the club's unbeaten start to the League Two season. The 27-year-old has already scored three goals and provided four assists in six appearances, helping the team maintain their position at the top of the table. Crowley shared his thoughts on the team’s progress and the changes that have contributed to their success so far. “It’s really good to be fair,” said Crowley when asked about the current mood in the camp. “It’s weird. It’s quite a chilled group to be honest. The players are very chilled. I think everyone’s just kind of going about their business… we’re not getting too excited, we’re just really enjoying our football, we’re playing really well.” Despite the excitement surrounding their strong start, Crowley explained that the squad remains level-headed. “Obviously we, you know, we’re not stupid, we know we’re top of the table and unbeaten. But in terms of getting carried away, it’s just… the lads are really level-headed, and we’re just focused onto Saturday.” Reflecting on the disappointment of the previous season, Crowley acknowledged that the team has learned valuable lessons and made significant improvements. “Last season was disappointing, you know, how we finished, but it was a great learning curve for all of us,” he admitted. “The new additions have been great for the squad, you know, everyone can see how well they’ve impacted the team this season.” The changes in personnel have had a noticeable effect, with new players contributing to a more cohesive and successful unit. “When you have that many new players, it can be… you don’t have the connection yet, you don’t build that relationship on the pitch yet,” Crowley said of the transition. “But the way we’ve started on the pitch says it feels like, you know, we’ve all really gelled together.” Crowley also spoke about how the club’s clear identity and tactical structure have helped new players settle in quickly. “When you have a style of play that kind of never changes, it makes it easy for new players to come in. If it’s always changing… we don’t really have an identity. But the gaffer and Matty and Craig [Saunders] and all the staff have made it pretty clear how we want to play,” Crowley explained. “The instructions that the coaches give to them make it very easy for them. We’re a really good team, and it’s a good set of lads,” he added, praising the coaching staff for ensuring the team’s playing philosophy remains clear and consistent. This summer, Crowley, like teammate Jodi Jones, was the subject of transfer speculation, but he remained unfazed by the rumours. “It was fine to be honest. I’m used to football now. If you’re in a team that’s doing really well, as an individual you’re going to be playing well. I’m used to seeing speculation around players, and I’ve had it before in my career,” Crowley said. While he appreciated the attention from other clubs, Crowley made it clear where his focus lies. “My focus is on Notts. I’m a Notts County player, I love it here, it’s a great club. Everyone can see how much I’m enjoying my football now, you only have to watch how we play, and you know how I’m performing to see how much I love it here,” he said. Looking ahead to the weekend’s top-of-the-table clash against Gillingham, Crowley was measured in his response. “In a way yes, but then like in a way no, it’s just another game at Meadow Lane and everyone knows how good we are here and how good we have been,” he said when asked if the match felt particularly significant. Crowley did acknowledge, however, that a positive result could bolster the team’s confidence. “If we get a good result on Saturday against second in the league, then I think you can kind of see where you’re going to be. It doesn’t define you in your season, but if you get a good result against a really good side who are at the top of the table with us, it can really open our eyes.” As Notts County continue their push for promotion, Crowley’s contributions on the pitch, along with the team’s unity and focus, have given fans at Meadow Lane plenty to be optimistic about. Check out our latest article on Pride of Nottingham where Stuart Maynard shares how Notts County’s unpredictability has been key to their success ahead of the big test against Gillingham FC! Join the discussion on Pride of Nottingham! Head over to the dashboard page and share your thoughts on all things Notts County with fellow fans.

Stuart Maynard, head coach of Notts County, has expressed optimism about the progress of his squad as they head into a critical clash against Gillingham. Speaking about the team’s readiness, Maynard highlighted the positive strides made in key areas, including the return of players from injury, improved defensive solidity, and the vital support from the fans. Maynard revealed encouraging updates on several players recovering from injuries. Rob McDonald and Lucas Ness are nearing full fitness, with McDonald back in training and Ness following closely behind. Both are expected to be ready for selection in the coming weeks, which Maynard described as "brilliant for us" in ensuring squad depth. He also shared that Scott Robertson and Cedwyn Scott are progressing well, with Scott potentially available within a fortnight. Reflecting on the team's improved performances, Maynard attributed their better grasp of his system to the full pre-season the squad had under their belts. Last season’s teething issues have given way to a more cohesive unit, and Maynard credits the extensive training period for helping them refine their approach. "Pre-season has been huge for us... to get all the key points and different factors," he explained, emphasizing that this preparation has been crucial in implementing both attacking and defensive strategies. Notts County's ability to score goals remains a hallmark of Maynard’s system, even when influential players like Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley were absent. He praised the team for continuing to find the back of the net, with their structured approach allowing other players to step up. Maynard highlighted Jones' versatility, saying, "He's starting to score goals... and the defenders don’t know which way he's going now," pointing to Jones' newfound unpredictability on the pitch. However, it’s not just about attacking for Maynard. He stressed the importance of defending as a team and credited the entire squad, from the forwards to the wing-backs, for their commitment to protecting the goal. While players like Jacob Bedeau, Louis Macari, and Alex Bass in goal have been standout performers, Maynard emphasised that the collective defensive effort has been key to their unbeaten start. "It's not just an emphasis on the defence... it's on the group," he said. Looking ahead to the upcoming game against Gillingham, Maynard acknowledged the physical challenge posed by their opponents but reaffirmed his commitment to sticking to Notts County’s playing style. "We always look at ourselves first and foremost," he stated, while also recognizing the need to match Gillingham's physicality. As always, Maynard called on the fans to play their part, pointing to their impact during the recent 4-2 comeback against Bromley. "The fans have been incredible... we need Meadow Lane rocking," he urged, stressing the importance of their role as the "12th man" in driving the team forward. With momentum building and players returning from injury, Maynard’s confidence in his squad is clear. However, he remains grounded, insisting that while the team’s unbeaten run has bred confidence, the focus is solely on the next challenge: Gillingham at Meadow Lane. In our latest article, Dan Crowley reaffirms his commitment to the club, stating, "My focus is on Notts. I’m a Notts County player," highlighting the strong bond within the Pride of Nottingham community. Join the Pride of Nottingham today to connect with fellow fans and celebrate the spirit of our club! If you're already a member, sign in and get involved to make your voice heard!

This Saturday, Notts County return to Meadow Lane for a top-of-the-table clash against Gillingham FC. Both sides are in fine form, with the Magpies leading the way in League Two, closely followed by the Gills, setting the stage for an exciting contest. Notts County have made Meadow Lane a fortress this season, boasting four consecutive wins and remaining unbeaten in six league matches. Stuart Maynard’s side have shown attacking prowess, notably in their recent 4-1 victory over Grimsby Town and the 2-0 triumph against Accrington Stanley. The Magpies will be looking to extend their perfect home record, with fans eager to see their team push for another three points. Key players like Dan Crowley, with his creative midfield presence, and forward Alassana Jatta, who continues to impress in front of goal, will play pivotal roles. Maynard has spoken of the importance of maintaining momentum and keeping Meadow Lane a challenging venue for any visiting side. With injuries to Curtis Edwards and doubts over Cedwyn Scott, Scott Robertson, and Lucas Ness, the Magpies' squad depth could be tested, though the return of Rod McDonald to training is a welcome boost. Mark Bonner’s Gillingham side arrive in Nottingham with confidence following a 3-0 victory over Tranmere Rovers. The Gills sit second in the table, just behind Notts County, and will be determined to continue their strong start to the campaign. While their away form has been less convincing, with a 1-0 win at Morecambe followed by a draw at Fleetwood and a defeat at Doncaster, Bonner believes this game is a good early-season test for his squad. Key players to watch for Gillingham include midfielder Armani Little, whose energy in the middle of the park could dictate their tempo, and full-back Remeao Hutton, who has been influential on the flanks. Johnny Williams returns to the side, adding experience, but they will miss Ethan Coleman due to suspension and are waiting on fitness updates for Josh Andrews and Bradley Deck. This clash promises to be a fascinating tactical battle between two in-form sides. Notts County’s attacking depth, bolstered by Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley’s creativity, will aim to break down a Gillingham defence that has looked solid in recent games. On the other hand, Gillingham's ability to remain compact while hitting on the counter, utilising Hutton’s pace down the wings, could pose problems for the Magpies. The midfield duel between Crowley and Little will likely be decisive, with both players capable of unlocking defences and setting the tempo. Maynard’s men will need to maintain their composure, especially with the Gills backed by around 1,000 travelling fans. With both teams riding high in the league, this promises to be an intense, high-stakes encounter. For Notts County, maintaining their unbeaten record and keeping their grip on the top spot will be the focus. For Gillingham, it’s a chance to prove their credentials away from home. Expect a thrilling contest at Meadow Lane, where the Magpies' attacking quality will be tested against Gillingham’s resolute defence. Head over to Pride of Nottingham to read Stuart Maynard’s Optimism: Key Players Return as Notts County Prepares for Gillingham Showdown and get the latest team news. Don’t miss how the Magpies are gearing up for this crucial clash! Join the conversation on Pride of Nottingham and share your thoughts on Dan Crowley: "My Focus Is on Notts. I’m a Notts County Player." Read the full article and leave your comments on Crowley's commitment to the team and his standout performances!