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The latest Faces of PON gallery from Notts County’s home fixture against Salford City is now live. Supporters can browse the full set of photos, which captures fans in and around Meadow Lane on matchday. The gallery is part of an ongoing project to document the people who follow Notts County, both regulars and new faces. You can view the latest collection on our Facebook page or in the Pride of Nottingham gallery. Facebook: Faces of PON – Salford City (H) Pride of Nottingham: Faces of PON – Salford City (H) We welcome all supporters to take a look and see if they or someone they know features in the collection. Take a moment to read the Pride of Nottingham's match report from yesterday's 2-1 defeat to Salford City at Meadow Lane. Jump into the latest community chats and let us know what you think about the things that matter to you. Share what you love with PON!

Notts County’s first home fixture of the 2025-26 League Two campaign ended in disappointment as they fell to a 2-1 defeat against Salford City at Meadow Lane. Following a 1-1 draw away to Newport County on the opening day, Martin Paterson made two changes to his starting eleven. Ollie Norburn and Keanan Bennetts came in for their first starts, replacing Kellan Gordon and Conor Grant. Kelle Roos kept his place in goal, with a back three of Jacob Bedeau, Matty Platt and Sonny Aljofree. Barry Cotter and Bennetts operated as wing backs, while Norburn partnered Matt Palmer in midfield. Tom Iorpenda and Jodi Jones supported striker Matthew Dennis. The visitors began the match looking sharp and organised. Notts had early moments that hinted at promise, but their midfield lacked cohesion, making it difficult to break through Salford’s defensive shape. The Ammies had the first clear openings, with Cotter producing two vital blocks to deny Kelly N’Mai in the 14th minute. After Roos saved comfortably from Kadeem Harris, Notts responded through Iorpenda, who saw his shot saved by Matt Young. However, it was Salford who struck first. From a set piece in the 35th minute, Adebola Oluwo was allowed a free header from Jorge Grant’s delivery, directing the ball high into the net. Questions will be asked about the marking, as the centre-back was left unchallenged. The Magpies were fortunate not to be two goals down before the break when Aljofree cleared off the line, but the warning went unheeded. Just 13 minutes into the second half, a risky pass back to Roos proved costly. The goalkeeper’s attempted pass into Norburn was intercepted, and Salford moved the ball quickly for N’Mai to finish low into the corner. It was a poor defensive decision compounded by a lack of urgency in recovery. Notts almost found a lifeline soon after when Jones struck the crossbar from a 25-yard free kick. Paterson made changes, with Conor Grant and Jayden Luker replacing Norburn and Dennis. The substitutions paid off on 71 minutes when Luker reduced the deficit, finishing calmly after neat build-up play from Aljofree, Grant and Iorpenda. Luker had another effort blocked moments later, but Salford managed the closing stages well. The Magpies pushed forward but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities, with Salford’s defence holding firm. Jones had a late penalty appeal turned down when Josh Austerfield appeared to catch him in the area during stoppage time. Notts ended the match with 58 percent possession but only three shots on target compared to Salford’s five. The visitors also forced seven corners to Notts’ one, underlining their threat from set pieces. Both sides collected three yellow cards in a physical contest, with Salford committing 18 fouls to Notts’ 11. The result leaves Paterson’s side still searching for their first win of the season. While there were glimpses of quality, defensive lapses and a lack of fluency in midfield proved costly against a lively Salford outfit. The Pride of Nottingham community is discussing the disappointing 2-1 defeat at home to Salford City; share your post-match thoughts with us. Despite the result and performance overall not being what we wanted, the Pride of Nottingham welcomes you to vote for our Man of the Match from yesterday's game; you have until 9pm to vote.

Martin Paterson says he is “delighted” to lead Notts County in his first competitive home game as head coach but stresses his focus is firmly on performance and preparation ahead of today’s 12:30pm kick-off against Salford City at Meadow Lane. The Magpies head into the fixture on the back of a 1-1 draw away at Newport County, where Jodi Jones’ penalty salvaged a point. While Paterson acknowledges the excitement of stepping out in front of the home crowd, he is keen to temper emotions with a professional approach. “Yes, it's exciting. I'm looking forward to it, but I always kind of err on the side of caution with excitement as a head coach,” he said. “My objective is clear at home games and be prepared properly for Salford. So, yes, I'm delighted to have the first home game, but I know the responsibility that I carry in terms of a performance and a result.” Paterson has already had a taste of Meadow Lane from the dugout during the pre-season friendly against Cardiff City, but he expects today to carry an extra edge. “It is, but I thought the crowd were fantastic against Cardiff, to be fair,” he added. “There’s no difference in terms of what I expect from the group every game. There's no friendlies. When the lights go on, it is different, and the players are aware of that. Again, I'll keep going back to our preparation this week. We're ready.” Notts’ preparations have been boosted by the addition of 19-year-old midfielder Tyrese Hall on loan from Tottenham Hotspur. “He's had a good week in training, a full week. Delighted to get him over the line. We're fully aware of why we've brought him in and it just heightens everybody else as well because competition for places this week has been really good to see in training,” said Paterson. That competition has been particularly fierce following the draw at Newport. “We didn't win at the weekend, so when that happens it's never a good thing for a coach,” he explained. “The positives from that is that it's open season really for competition for places because we didn't win. The players know they're expected to win games. We know how hard the division is, so let's not underestimate oppositions because Salford will be a really tough game. Training this week has been uncomfortable in moments because I've made them compete.” Asked about managing a crowded midfield, Paterson was clear that his priority is performance, not keeping everyone happy. “That's not my job, to keep them happy. Their job is when they get the shirt to play for Notts County, especially at Meadow Lane, their job is to perform and stick the ball in the back of the net. And if they do that, very, very unlikely I'm going to change them. I will change personnel dependent on opposition and I'll also change if I feel that the person hasn't performed. The players all know that.” Paterson confirmed recruitment remains ongoing but kept details close to his chest. “I'm still active, still working with the recruitment team, all of us together are having daily conversations. So yes, I believe there will be movement. Not necessarily permanent, but we'll see.” With a busy schedule ahead, including back-to-back midweek matches, Paterson is unfazed. “It won't impact us at all, if I'm being brutally honest. What it gives is people opportunity to perform well and stay in the team.” Looking at today’s opponents, Paterson recognises the challenge. “Yeah, tough game. I’ve watched the game against Crewe, bits and bobs of other games, but the focus this week has been on us. Still, we’ve done our due diligence on Salford. They’re a good team and I’m expecting a really tough game.” Time is ticking for you to share your pre-match thoughts on today's game against Salford City, but don't worry! You're welcome to share your post-match opinions here on the Pride of Nottingham. Take a moment to join and become a part of the Pride of Nottingham community, where you can share your thoughts on Notts and get to know other Notts fans.

Notts County winger Jodi Jones is aiming to add more goals to his game this season as the Magpies prepare for their first home league fixture of the campaign against Salford City at Meadow Lane. Speaking ahead of the match, Jones discussed his role under head coach Martin Paterson, the competition within the squad, and the team’s ambitions for promotion. The Malta international, who was named League Two’s Player of the Season in 2023-24, is keen to make an impact in front of the home crowd. This season, Jones has been operating higher up the pitch, something he feels suits his strengths. “No, I like it. I'm still getting used to it a little bit. I've played there before, obviously. I can still drift into certain positions where I'm in my natural position as well at times,” he said. “We all know I'm a better attacker than I am a defender, you know, so I want to be as high up the pitch as possible and affecting the game.” While his movement around the pitch might appear free-flowing, Jones is quick to point out that it is not without structure. “No, I wouldn't say that. The gaffer wouldn't say that either. He trusts us, especially the eights and tens, that if we feel like we want to have a little switch, we can, but it's not just doing what you want. I just wanted to get on the ball and try and make something happen.” Paterson has set Jones the target of becoming more prolific this season, a challenge the 27-year-old has embraced. “He demands a lot. It's good because I feel like that's when I play my best football. I expect a lot of myself. I'm my own harshest critic at times and I know I can score goals,” said Jones. “This season, I'm looking to score a lot more goals. If I get a chance in and around the box, I believe I can put the ball in the back of the net. And of course, I believe I'm a good penalty taker as well.” Jones also spoke about the competitive nature of the current Notts squad, which has seen several attacking additions over the summer. “Yes, there is [healthy competition]. That's something that we need. When I've got a lot of competition around me and a lot of good players, that's when I play my best football. We've got a fantastic squad and, honestly, it's very, very exciting.” Now one of the club’s longest-serving players alongside captain Matt Palmer, Jones knows exactly what he wants to achieve. “We want to get promoted. We've been here the longest. Other people have moved on, but we're still here and we've got the same aim,” he said. “Nothing would beat promotion. We believe we can go and achieve it this season.” With Salford City the visitors this weekend, Jones is relishing the chance to start the campaign at home. “I'm really excited. I think since I've been here, I don't think our first game's ever been at home. I'm sure the atmosphere will be really good. It'll be rocking tomorrow and we're ready to get the three points.” Come and join the chat about the Pride of Nottingham match! We'd love to hear your thoughts on who might be in the lineup, what you think about the opposing team, or just anything else on your mind. Share your opinions! Check out the popular dashboard page, where you can find everything that is happening on the site on a single page. Get involved with PON today!

Notts County’s Director of Football, Roberto Gagliardi, believes the club is heading in the right direction following a busy summer of change and recruitment at Meadow Lane. Since arriving in April, Gagliardi has worked closely with owners Chris and Alex Reedtz, helping to shape the squad and appoint new head coach Martin Paterson. Reflecting on his first few months in Nottingham, Gagliardi said: “I love it. I think life in Notts County is excellent. I love the city, the atmosphere. Everybody in the club made me feel really welcome from day one.” Having worked previously with the Reedtz brothers in a data analyst role, Gagliardi praised the club's working environment. “Chris and Alex are as humble, as approachable, as successful they are,” he said. “I have space to work, I present my ideas, they listen, they don’t necessarily agree all the time, but I feel this really gives me a lot of confidence.” One of Gagliardi’s first major tasks was overseeing the appointment of Paterson. “It’s been quite a long process in the coach identification of recruitment. Perhaps a bit longer than we initially expected, but we didn’t want to compromise,” he explained. “We wanted to build on the existing DNA of the club… but also add elements like intensity and physicality.” He believes Paterson fits the profile the club needed: “Eventually we decided for Martin and we’re very pleased with this decision. I work really well with him.” On the transfer front, Gagliardi oversaw 11 new signings and several high-profile departures, including goalkeeper Alex Bass and striker David McGoldrick. “We had no intention to sell Alex in the first place,” Gagliardi said. “Then we had a strong offer coming from a club in a higher division, followed by another stronger offer.” On McGoldrick’s exit, he added: “Can we replace really a player with that level of talent in League Two? This is a really difficult task. We made an offer, the best offer we could. He decided not to take it, which we fully respect.” He believes the club has done well to strengthen overall. “If I compare the squad from last season and how it is now, I’m pretty pleased with what I see,” he said. “We think that, again, if we look at the team as a whole, I think we are strong enough to compete in this league.” The focus on athleticism and physicality in the summer rebuild was based on a collective review. “It was important to recruit towards those attributes… physicality, pace, power, intensity,” he explained. “We recruited these attributes in, I would say, the majority, if not all the players.” Gagliardi also highlighted the importance of loan deals, including the recent arrival of Tottenham midfielder Tyrese Hall. “He’s a very versatile midfielder. I really like the fact that he plays forward, he thinks forward. He’s what I call a progressive player,” he said. “We’re very excited to have him.” He acknowledged fan concerns about January recalls, but said the club plans carefully: “We keep constant communications with the parent club and monitor performance… and we always work with keeping our options open.” Looking ahead, Gagliardi confirmed that more movement in the transfer market is possible: “Maybe one or two incomings are still possible… but we’re conscious that we don’t have to collect players. We just have to bring players that we really think are going to strengthen us.” Following the draw against Newport County on the opening day, Gagliardi said the team is heading in the right direction. “I was pleased with the performance, especially in the first half. A bit disappointed with the result… but we look forward and we build on the good work that has been done on the pitch so far.” He also praised the club's new technical board and welcomed the arrival of Dr David Rhodes: “Everyone in the club, players and coaching staff, will benefit from his know-how and experience. The target is that we become a high-performing club in every department.” Gagliardi concluded by urging fans to be patient. “When there are so many changes that happen in the summer, the key word may be patience… but I like to think that we are going in the right direction.” The Ammies are visiting Meadow Lane this weekend, as Notts County prepares to host Salford City. Join in and share your thoughts on this upcoming League Two game. The Pride of Nottingham is already discussing yesterday's interview with Notts County's Director of Football, Roberto Gagliardi. Share your thoughts on this here.

Notts County have completed the loan signing of Tyrese Hall from Tottenham Hotspur. The 19-year-old midfielder will spend the season at Meadow Lane, adding to Martin Paterson’s options in the centre of the pitch. Hall is regarded as one of the most promising talents in Spurs’ youth ranks. Comfortable playing as a number 6, 8 or 10, he has also represented England at Under-19 level. He follows in the footsteps of George Abbott, who spent time on loan with the Magpies last season, and joins fellow loanees Tom Iorpenda and Jayden Luker in the squad. Director of Football Roberto Gagliardi says Hall brings a mix of technical quality and energy to the midfield. He believes the 19-year-old is able to move the ball forward with purpose and is confident when dribbling under pressure. Gagliardi said Hall defends from the front, presses well, and makes smart runs to support attacking play. The club’s link with Tottenham helped the deal go through, following a positive experience with George Abbott last season. Both clubs see this move as a good fit for Hall’s development. Hall began his youth career at Chelsea before moving to Spurs. He signed a five-year deal with them last summer and has featured in the EFL Trophy, scoring against Swindon Town. This will be his first full season in senior football. His arrival adds further depth and competition to Notts County’s midfield ahead of a long League Two campaign. Share your thoughts on the arrival of Tyrese Hall to Meadow Lane, with the young Spurs academy player following in the footsteps of last year's loanee George Abbott. Pride of Nottingham member Robbie has started a discussion which he is following and updating the Notts injury list.

Notts County opened their League Two campaign with a 1-1 draw at Rodney Parade, as Jodi Jones’ second-half penalty cancelled out an early goal from Newport County. Martin Paterson’s first competitive game as head coach saw ten summer signings feature in the matchday squad, with five handed starts. Kelle Roos began in goal behind a back three of Sonny Aljofree, Matty Platt, and Jacob Bedeau. Barry Cotter and Kellan Gordon occupied the wing-back roles, with captain Matt Palmer and Tom Iorpenda anchoring midfield. Conor Grant and Jodi Jones supported Matthew Dennis up front. Kick-off was delayed due to a medical emergency in the crowd, with the game beginning at 4pm. When play got underway, Notts quickly took control. The Magpies struck the woodwork early when Barry Cotter’s low cross was met by Conor Grant, whose first-time effort came back off the bar. Minutes later, Tom Iorpenda steered an effort narrowly wide after a deflection fell into his path. Notts pressed relentlessly and were denied a strong penalty shout when Aljofree looked to be held back while trying to reach a rebound. The referee waved play on. Newport struggled to keep possession as Notts dictated the tempo. Jones forced a good save from Nik Tzanev before half-time, his driven effort pushed wide at the near post. Despite Notts enjoying 70% of possession and winning the corner count 6 to 2, they fell behind shortly after the restart. A long throw into the area was not dealt with and Gerard Garner headed in from close range. Paterson responded with a double substitution, introducing Keanan Bennetts and Oliver Norburn. The game became more scrappy, but Notts continued to push forward. Their persistence was rewarded in the 64th minute. Norburn lifted a ball over the top for Dennis, who was brought down inside the area by Matt Baker. The referee pointed to the spot and Jones stepped up to fire a left-footed penalty into the bottom-left corner, sending Tzanev the wrong way. Newport almost regained the lead when Michael Reindorf struck the post from a tight angle, but Notts responded well. Dennis showed strength to chase down a long pass and work a shooting chance, though his effort was saved. As the clock ticked down, Paterson made further changes. Curtis Edwards and Jayden Luker replaced Cotter and Jones, with Maz Kouhyar coming on for Dennis shortly after. Despite late pressure and six minutes of added time, Notts were unable to find a winner. The match ended with the points shared, though Notts will feel they were the better side. With more shots, more corners, and clear dominance in possession, the performance offered positives for Paterson and his side as they begin their League Two campaign. Missed the excitement on matchday? Catch up and share your thoughts on Notts County’s trip to Newport over on Pride of Nottingham; it’s never too late to join the chat. Who earned your vote at Newport? Head to Pride of Nottingham and pick your Man of the Match; let's give credit where it's due.

Martin Paterson insists that the hard work must continue as Notts County prepare for their League Two opener away at Newport County. The new head coach, who replaced Stuart Maynard following last season’s play-off semi-final defeat, spoke candidly ahead of his first competitive game in charge. While the atmosphere around the club has been buoyant, Paterson admitted his own focus remains firmly on preparation rather than emotion. “Yes, I think I'd be a liar if I get as excited as everybody else does,” he said. “At this moment, as a head coach, it's not excitement. It's almost a double checking of everything that you've done.” He acknowledged the excitement within the squad, however. “They’re ready now,” he said. “I think they just want the game to come around as quickly as possible.” Reflecting on pre-season, Paterson said he felt “very settled” at the club and in the area, but admitted that assessing the squad was initially difficult due to the unfamiliar opposition faced during the friendlies. “Over the last two games, I've seen enough to know that, okay, I think I'm pleased with the group at this moment.” This summer has seen ten new arrivals at Meadow Lane, including trialist Keanan Bennetts and loanee Jayden Luker. On Bennetts, Paterson said, “He's come in on trial and deserved a contract… that aligns with the kind of characters I want, people that earn the right to play for Notts County.” Luker’s arrival followed a longer period of tracking. “Monitoring him for a while, that's been ongoing… delighted to get it done before the season starts.” Though pleased with the current group, Paterson confirmed the club is still active in the market. “We're still working and actively collaborating as a recruitment team to get some targets over the line in the next few weeks.” Looking ahead to the clash with Newport, Paterson said that early season analysis can be tricky but took steps to minimise that. “I actually went to \[their] game in person… so I'm aware of Newport.” He admitted the nature of an opening day fixture makes it unpredictable. “I'd be a liar to say I know exactly what's going to conspire, but we're ready.” On the subject of pressure and expectations, he was clear-eyed. “If you play for Notts County, you've got to be at peace with that and it should be a challenge that you're ready to get your teeth into.” While he acknowledged the importance of a good start, Paterson struck a note of caution. “One swallow doesn't mean a summer… it’s being emotionally balanced to understand that.” Asked what success looks like, Paterson avoided bold predictions. “We want to get into the highest position, highest league we can… but if you look too far ahead, you trip up over your feet.” He also spoke about the club’s much-discussed collaborative structure, insisting that the decision-making process remains clear. “I make all decisions on the team, substitutions and how we go about it… but I'm not above being humble enough to discuss after, can we improve?” When asked directly whether he sees Notts as promotion contenders, Paterson didn’t hesitate. “I do. Strongly do. But… if we don't perform in the first five games to those levels that we should do, then we're not going to be. Talk is cheap.” As the Magpies prepare to begin their campaign in Wales, Paterson’s message is simple: focus, honesty and hard work. 🗨️ Join in with the Pride of Nottingham's Match Discussion ahead of tomorrow's opening game against Newport County, and share your thoughts on the lineup and opposition. During the close and pre-season the Pride of Nottingham has undergone a major upgrade, with the majority of the site now back. Check out our Dashboard page and our improved "Latest Community Discussion" feature.

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?

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.

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.

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.