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Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard has expressed his full support for forward Cedwyn Scott, who has been granted a leave of absence due to ongoing struggles with depression. The 25-year-old player, who has endured a difficult period on and off the pitch, has been lauded by his manager for his bravery in openly discussing his mental health. Maynard, speaking ahead of Notts County’s clash with AFC Wimbledon at Meadow Lane, revealed that Scott’s battle has been ongoing for some time. "He’s been struggling for a while, Ceds," Maynard admitted. "He’s had a very difficult time, and even if you go back to last season with his injury, being out for most of the season, footballers want to play. It’s a release in a sense, playing week in, week out on the pitch in front of the fans. I think Ceds has struggled for a while, and we’ve been talking about it, but as a football club, we support him and back him. The key thing is supporting and backing him." Maynard emphasised the importance of Scott’s decision to come forward and speak about his mental health, acknowledging how much courage it takes to do so in an environment like professional football. "It’s huge credit to himself to be able to come out and talk about it because it’s a massive strength. I feel that we, as a football club and a management team, we’re a supportive club. We talk to our players a lot about lots of things because we want to make sure that if you’re happy off the pitch, when you come into work it’s got to be a good environment. Then you perform to the best of your ability." The Notts County manager stressed the role of the club in creating a positive, open atmosphere where players feel comfortable discussing their personal challenges. "We’re always talking to the players and making sure they’re okay on and off the pitch. It’s a huge credit to Ceds to be able to come out and openly talk about it. We wish him the best, and we’re supporting him in every way we can to make sure we get him right and back enjoying his football as soon as possible." Scott, who has struggled with injuries in the past, has faced the difficulty of being sidelined, a challenge that many footballers find isolating. "It’s a lonely place when you get injured, especially long-term injuries," Maynard explained. "Initially, you’re around the group, but then you end up with different rehab programmes, whether it’s gym sessions or not being out on the grass for a long period of time, so it’s very lonely. People think it’s always a team environment, but it’s very different for a player who’s not able to train and be close to the group." When asked about the resources available to players like Scott, Maynard reassured fans that the club is doing everything possible to help him during this challenging time. "There are means in place to support him and get him help with a counsellor. The PFA (Professional Footballers' Association) has been very good and supportive as well. There are lots of channels that you can gain support from, but the biggest thing is admitting it and wanting help, and that’s what’s brilliant with Ceds. He’s admitted he’s struggling, and now he can get the help." Despite the setback, Maynard remains confident that Scott will return to football stronger and ready to contribute. "We back him. We know he’s a top player and that he’ll be influential for us when he comes back, but there’s no pressure. We’ve just got to support him in the right way, and he’ll be back when he’s ready. There’s no timescale for us." As Notts County prepares for their upcoming match, the focus remains on providing support for Scott. The club, in line with Maynard’s vision, is committed to ensuring that their players’ well-being comes first, both on and off the pitch. Be sure to leave your thoughts on tomorrow's game at Meadow Lane against AFC Wimbledon in the Match Discussion on Pride of Nottingham. Join in and see what's being discussed by visiting our popular dashboard page for a quick glance over the latest on the site.