Chris

Born on 14 April 1972 in Erdington, Birmingham, Paul John Devlin carved out an impressive football career that spanned two decades. Known for his versatility as a midfielder and forward, Devlin made over 500 appearances across the Football League, Premier League, and League of Ireland, earning ten caps for the Scotland national team along the way. His journey from non-league football to the top tiers of English football is a testament to his determination, skill, and love for the game. Growing up in the Perry Common area of Birmingham, Devlin was an ardent footballer from a young age, playing for local teams Boldmere St. Michaels, St John's Celtic, and Tamworth. After a brief spell at Tamworth, where he made 12 first-team appearances as a teenager, Devlin found himself without a club. However, his persistence paid off when he joined Armitage 90 in the Staffordshire Senior League. His performances caught the eye of Stafford Rangers, who secured his services for £2,000 in 1990. During his time at Stafford, Devlin attracted the attention of top-flight clubs, leading to a trial with Liverpool. Although a potential move to Anfield fell through, Notts County swooped in with a £60,000 bid in February 1992, marking the start of Devlin's professional career. Devlin's arrival at Notts in 1992 saw the young midfielder gradually break into the first team. Despite the club's relegation to the second tier at the end of his debut season, Devlin established himself as a key player. Over the next few seasons, he became a fan favourite, known for his work rate, skill, and knack for scoring crucial goals. In the 1993-94 season, he was instrumental in the Magpies' run to the Anglo-Italian Cup final, where they narrowly lost to Brescia. The following season, Devlin helped the club win the Anglo-Italian Cup, providing the cross for the winning goal in the final against Ascoli. However, after the club's relegation to the third tier in 1995, Devlin sought a new challenge, and in March 1996, he was sold to Birmingham City. Returning to his hometown, Devlin quickly became a fan favourite at Birmingham. He made an immediate impact, scoring twice in his home debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers. His first full season saw him finish as the club's top scorer with 19 goals, earning him the Player of the Season award. However, a fallout with manager Trevor Francis led to Devlin's departure to Sheffield United in 1998. At United, Devlin continued to impress, becoming the club's Player of the Year for the 1999-2000 season. His combative style and ability to find the back of the net made him a valuable asset. However, by 2002, Devlin was yearning for a return to Birmingham, and his wish was granted when he rejoined the club on loan before making the move permanent. His return was marked by a pivotal role in Birmingham's promotion to the Premier League, where he scored the club's first-ever Premier League goal at St Andrew's. As new signings at St Andrew's pushed him down the pecking order, Devlin moved to Watford in 2003, where he played a crucial role during his two-year stint. A brief spell at Walsall followed, before Devlin ventured to the League of Ireland with Bohemians, where he played until the manager who signed him was dismissed. Devlin then returned to non-league football, turning out for several clubs, including a return to Tamworth and stints with Halesowen Town and Stratford Town, before retiring from the professional game. Despite being born in England, Devlin qualified to play for Scotland through his father, and he earned his first cap at the age of 30 in 2002. Over the next year, he made ten appearances for Scotland, fulfilling a lifelong dream by playing at Hampden Park in front of his family. His final appearance for Scotland came in 2003, marking the end of a brief but proud international career. Paul Devlin's career is a story of grit, determination, and a deep love for football. From the non-league pitches of Staffordshire to the bright lights of the Premier League, he remained a player who gave his all for every club he represented. For Notts fans, he will always be remembered as a young, tenacious player who played a crucial part in the club's history during the early 1990s. His journey through the leagues, coupled with his international exploits, serves as an inspiration to many aspiring footballers. As a player, coach, and mentor, Devlin's influence on the game continues to be felt, long after his playing days have ended. Dive into the Pride of Nottingham alumni article, featuring the legendary Notts County striker, Tom Keetley! Don’t miss out on this piece of football history. Explore our Alumni Series on Pride of Nottingham, celebrating the greats of Notts County! Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments!

Introduction: Name: Michael Beardmore. How long have you supported Accrington Stanley? I’ve supported Accrington Stanley since I was about 8. I’m now 35. Are you a season ticket holder? Yes, I’m a season ticket holder. Age? 35. Favourite Player? Shaun Whalley. Andy Holt has been a prominent figure in the club’s management. How do you feel about his leadership and the direction he has taken the club? Are there any specific initiatives or changes he has implemented that you particularly appreciate or disagree with? Andy Holt has been amazing for Stanley. What he has built at the club is incredible, including the ground and clubhouse. I agree with the changes he has made. How would you rate Accrington Stanley’s performance so far this season? Are there any standout players who have made a significant impact? I don’t think we have played really badly. We’ve had a couple of tough games. Against Doncaster away, we were well in the game for 65 minutes. Shaun Whalley has been as consistent as always, showing quality. A few new lads have looked good too. Tyler Walton looks like a real find. Are there any specific matchups or battles on the pitch that you think will be particularly important in determining the outcome of the game? We just need our defence to stay strong. Maybe Farrend Rawson can try to keep Daavid McGoldrick quiet, but it won’t be easy. What are your expectations for the upcoming match against Notts County? Do you feel confident about Accrington Stanley’s chances? We played okay there last season, but again, it won’t be easy at all. I’d take a draw now; I’ll say 2-2. What do you see as the biggest challenges facing Accrington Stanley in the near future? Conversely, what opportunities do you think the club should capitalise on? It’s always the same for Stanley, keeping our better players is a challenge every season. And some of the young lads too. It’s not easy. What are your expectations for Accrington Stanley this season? Do you have any specific hopes or predictions for where the team will finish in the league? Safety first, I’d take mid-table, but I would love a play-off push. Maybe this young team, including Donald Love, isn’t quite ready for that yet. Accrington Stanley has a reputation for nurturing young talent. How do you feel about the club’s youth development program? Are there any young players you believe have the potential to become key figures in the future? We have a fantastic young set-up with the likes of Alex Henderson, Connor O’Brien, Dan Martin, Aaron Pickles, and a few more. Yes, the future does look bright. Final comments from Chris Accrington Stanley are always a team which is well-organised and works as a unit. They will be dangerous on the break and counter. Notts County must show their robust approach to defending, with Stanley being quite effective at set pieces and this will be a key area for the magpies' to balance. In attacking, Notts will have to make use of all the space on the pitch and when chances present themselves, it would be good to see the centre of the park explored and not just the flanks. We have the quality to punish them, but I believe it will fall down to pressure and who takes their chances. I predicted a 2-0 win for Notts. Join the conversation on Pride of Nottingham's match discussion as Notts County takes on Accrington Stanley at Meadow Lane - share your thoughts and predictions! Members of Pride of Nottingham are actively discussing the Notts County board's statement following the closure of the transfer window, join in and share your views!