PON_News

New Signing | Evie Brooks | Interview

Ian Marsden bleeds black and white. His passion for Notts County, a tradition passed down from father to son, has woven itself into the fabric of his life. "It's simple really," says Ian, a hint of nostalgia in his voice, "my dad was a Notts fan, and so am I." Life throws curveballs, however. Ian's wife Wendy, a pillar of support who once cheerfully chauffeured him across the country to cheer on the Magpies, can no longer drive due to a brain tumour. "Football doesn't seem as important any more when things like that happen," reflects Ian poignantly. Yet, the spirit of the game, the shared experience with his daughter Paige at matches, these remain a constant. "She's not that into football," he admits with a smile, "but she loves the atmosphere and the quality time together." Memories flood back for Ian when he talks about Notts County. He recounts his days as a junior Magpie with a childlike enthusiasm, a time filled with playing on the hallowed turf of Meadow Lane and even enjoying a stint as the club mascot. Victories over fierce rivals Nottingham Forest and the unforgettable promotion-clinching day against Cheltenham Town are etched in his mind like treasured photographs. There have been lows too, of course. The crushing defeat at Swindon in 2019 is a moment Ian describes with a grimace as "the most horrid, awful feeling." But even the recent years in the National League have offered glimmers of light. A chance encounter with a fellow commentator on the airwaves led Ian to fulfil a lifelong dream: commentating on Notts County, albeit at a Wembley eerily devoid of fans due to Covid restrictions. Another unforgettable moment came in the 22-23 National League season, in the press box overflow for the Wrexham away game, rubbing shoulders with international journalists for a game in the fifth tier of English football. The absurdity of the situation isn't lost on Ian. He shakes his head and chuckles; "surreal" is the word he uses. Ian's passion for Notts County extends beyond the terraces. His background in sports journalism finds a natural outlet in his volunteer work with Nottingham Hospitals Radio. Here, he has commentated on a wide range of sports, but the opportunity to call a Notts County game, even in the unusual circumstances of the empty Wembley stadium, holds a special place in his heart. "Despite the result and performance," he says, "this was still me, commentating on Notts, at Wembley, and that's a day I will never forget." Ian Marsden's story is a testament to the enduring power of football fandom, a love that transcends results and circumstance. It's a love passed down through generations, a love forever bound to the black and white stripes of Notts County. His journey reflects the dedication of countless supporters who weave the threads of their lives into the fabric of their clubs. Ian, the junior Magpie turned commentator, turned family man, embodies the unwavering spirit that keeps the beautiful game alive, one supporter, one memory, one game at a time. Ian's dedication extends far beyond the club's recent struggles in the National League. He remembers with fondness the camaraderie of away trips with Reg's tours, the thrill of scoring a goal for the junior Magpies on the hallowed turf of Meadow Lane. These experiences paint a vivid picture of a lifelong supporter, a man whose love for the club is as much about the shared experiences and the community spirit as it is about results on the pitch. The experience of Notts County has been undeniably transformed by Ian's family life. Gone are the days of Wendy chauffeuring him across the country for away games, but the essence of his fandom remains. He finds joy in sharing his passion with his daughter Paige, creating new memories on match days. Through the highs and lows, Ian's love for Notts County has endured. It's a love story etched in black and white, a testament to the enduring power of football and the unwavering spirit of its fans. Following the promotion from the National League in 22-23, Ian Marsden went on to write a book called "Putting on a Show." This book tells the story of Notts County's record-breaking 22/23 promotion. It's a must-read for any fan and can be purchased from the Notts County store in person, or via contacting Ian Marsden on Facebook. You can also drop the Pride of Nottingham an email at [email protected], and we'll pass over the details. It's a great book! Maddi Collins has organised a fundraiser to help support the Marsden family via Go Fund Me - the money raised helps Wendy who's been diagnosed with a stage 4 brain tumour tick off items from her bucket list. Check out the Pride of Nottingham dashboard, join in with the content within our community forum and be sure to leave your thoughts on subjects that interest you.

New Coach | Harry Mclean

MIC'D UP | NETHERLANDS TRAINING CAMP

INTERVIEW | MATTY PLATT IN THE NETHERLANDS

Pre-season Preview | Adam Dunleavy

MATCH REACTION | STUART MAYNARD | NOTTS COUNTY 1-0 WYCOMBE WANDERERS

MATCH REACTION | KELLAN GORDON | NOTTS COUNTY 1-0 WYCOMBE WANDERERS

TRAINING | KELLAN GORDON'S FIRST SESSION

MATCH REACTION | RYLEY REYNOLDS | ALFRETON TOWN 2-2 NOTTS COUNTY

INTERVIEW | STUART MAYNARD

In a pivotal move for both clubs, prolific Notts County striker Macaulay Langstaff is set to join Championship side Millwall. The 27-year-old has been on the radar of the Lions throughout the summer, and the deal looks imminent, securing last season’s League Two Golden Boot winner for their squad. Langstaff, who extended his stay with Notts County until 2027 in August and was installed as club captain on June 10, now appears poised to make his debut at Championship level. Millwall’s current roster of strikers includes Tom Bradshaw and Kevin Nisbet, with the addition of Langstaff promising to bolster their attacking options. In addition, Japhet Tanganga is reportedly set to undergo a medical with Millwall in preparation for a permanent move. A staggering tally of 71 goals in 97 appearances for Notts County stands testament to Langstaff’s prowess since his arrival from Gateshead. His signing for Millwall comes with a reported fee of £750,000. Langstaff's journey began by netting 42 goals in the National League, propelling Notts to promotion. He then continued his impressive form by scoring 28 goals in League Two. While Notts County currently hold joint fifth favourites status for the title, Langstaff’s exit might impact those odds. The decision to part ways with Langstaff was undoubtedly difficult for Notts County. Their board of directors expressed immense pride in Langstaff’s achievements, noting his professionalism and significant contributions to the club's recent successes. “We’re incredibly proud of what Macaulay has achieved in his time at Meadow Lane and wish him every success as he commences this exciting new chapter in his career. While we knew we were signing an excellent player, we could never have envisaged his achievements reaching the heights they have done over the last two years,” the directors stated. Stuart Maynard, head coach of Notts County who named Langstaff captain earlier this summer, reiterated the sentiment: “I would like to join the board in congratulating Macaulay on such a fantastic move. While we would have all loved to have kept him, his goals return was always going to make that incredibly difficult, and it wouldn’t have been right for anyone to stand in his way.” As Langstaff looks to thrive in the Championship, Notts County prepare to build a competitive squad ready to take on the challenges of the upcoming season. The departure of their star striker marks the end of a significant chapter, but also the beginning of new opportunities for both Langstaff and Notts County. Join the Pride of Nottingham community as we discuss the departure of fan favourite Macaulay Langstaff - share your thoughts, disappointment and parting message to the striker. Would you like a souvenir of Macaulay Langstaff's time at Notts County? We still have signed prints and a t-shirt. Show your pride for the former Notts County hero.

MACAULAY LANGSTAFF | EVERY NOTTS COUNTY GOAL

Lucien Mahovo, the promising 19-year-old defender who emerged as a star at Meadow Lane, has officially joined Norwich City for an undisclosed fee. Mahovo, who signed his first professional contract with Notts County in December 2022, leaves for the Sky Bet Championship after making his league debut on the final day of the last season. Speaking to Canaries TV after his signing, Mahovo expressed his enthusiasm for the move. "Brilliant, it’s a great club, it has brilliant facilities, and I am so excited to get ready and get going," he said. Notts County’s board of directors issued a statement reflecting their pride in Mahovo’s achievements and the role the club has played in his development. “While we’re very keen to see academy graduates like Lucien go on to establish themselves in our first team, we should also take pride in our ability to nurture young talent in a way that attracts interest from clubs in higher divisions. Having progressed well since his arrival in the 2021-22 season, Lucien thoroughly deserves the recognition this move brings for him – and we’re very happy with the structure of the deal." The statement also recognised the collective effort involved in Mahovo’s growth: “We’d like to acknowledge the efforts of everyone in our academy who was involved in bringing Lucien to the club and his development thereafter.” Mahovo’s journey at Notts County began after his stints in the academies of Manchester United and Sheffield United, where he initially shone as a winger. On moving to Meadow Lane, he quickly adapted to a new role as a central defender, impressing both fans and coaches alike. He signed a professional contract shortly after making his senior debut in an Emirates FA Cup qualifying fixture against Coalville Town. His experience grew further with a 90-minute appearance against Lincoln City in last season’s EFL Trophy, and a loan spell with Boston United before stepping in to cover defensive injuries at Forest Green Rovers. Reflecting on his time at Notts County, Mahovo had nothing but heartfelt words. "I absolutely loved it there, I spent a good three years of my life there. They took me in when nobody else wanted to, and they have made me the player I am today, so I am so grateful for the opportunities they have given me, and it was a good ending," he shared. As he embarks on this new chapter, Mahovo is eager to bring his loan experiences to the forefront to make a solid impact at Norwich City. "I think the men’s game is completely different to what the Under-21s bring and when you go there you come out a different player. I think I have learned a lot of valuable lessons when going out on loan, and I am ready to apply them here," he added. Now settled at Norwich, Mahovo is set to make the most of pre-season. "I am so excited, looking around the club today the facilities are fantastic, and I am so eager to use them, so I am ready to get going whenever," he remarked. Notts County wishes Lucien Mahovo all the best as he moves forward in his football career, carrying the pride of Meadow Lane with him to higher grounds. Share your thoughts with Pride of Nottingham on this surprising development, with fans talking about Lucien Mahovo to Norwich City. Browse around the Pride of Nottingham web store to check out our exclusive prints, most of which are kindly signed by the players - along with t-shirts and other items. Support the Pride of Nottingham by grabbing some of our excellent merch.

PITCH WORKS PROGRESSING | STITCHING PHASE

In an eagerly anticipated reveal, Notts County has unveiled their new home shirt for the 2024-25 League Two season. Teased on Instagram and swiftly released online, the kit is already garnering significant attention and praise from fans. The new home shirt features a striking design, with the team donning almost an entirely black kit, complete with black shorts and socks. The shirt boasts a sophisticated aesthetic, embellished with a white trim on the collar and sleeve ends. The front of the shirt prominently displays a centrally positioned Notts County badge, situated proudly above the Puma manufacturer logo. A unique design element features a primarily black top half, accented with faded white stripes that run down to the bottom of the garment. This modern twist blends classic club colours with contemporary fashion trends, creating a visually appealing strip. However, it's not just about appearances. The shirt is engineered for peak performance, incorporating Puma's dryCELL technology to wick moisture away from the body, ensuring players remain sweat-free during intense matches. Furthermore, in a commendable step towards sustainability, the shirt is made using 100% recycled materials (excluding trims and decorations), underscoring Notts County's commitment to environmental responsibility. Another standout feature of this shirt is its distinctive rib-detail two-tone collar. Combining black and white elements, it seamlessly integrates into the overall design, adding an elegant touch that rounds off its polished finish. Fans have been vocal on social media platforms like X (Formerly Twitter), sharing their thoughts on the innovative design. User @BillyNCFC21 commented, "Love it, just wish they'd make the sponsor black," reflecting some mixed feelings about the sponsor colour while appreciating the overall look. @84HereIGoAgain expressed excitement with their tweet: “Definitely different... love it, ordered it xx ???????? #COYP”. Meanwhile, @mgsevs had mixed sentiments: "Looks a picture of perfection strip-wise. Not keen on the sponsor block—not due to colour link those over Trent but because it looks too bold on these colours." Despite reservations about the sponsorship placement and colour choices, many agree this strip represents a significant aesthetic improvement. Adding to the excitement, fan @liam_pies offered his approval: "First real different shirt in ages; it looks nice," echoing the general enthusiasm for change paired with classic elements. Lastly, @TomDearLove1 used a GIF depicting someone expressing sheer perfection as their response to seeing this edition of Notts County's kit, a powerful testament to its strong visual impact. With vibrant reactions from fans, combined with advanced fabric technology engineered to enhance player performance while staying eco-friendly, the new Notts County home shirt elegantly bridges tradition and innovation as they embark on another thrilling season. As supporters clear out space in their wardrobes and rush to online stores to stock up on official merchandise, they are emotionally charged, anticipating stadiums brimming with renewed energy, embodied in apparel that fittingly represents the hope and pursuit of goals as they always strive for excellence on the field! You can purchase your new Notts County 2024-25 League Two home shirt by following this straight to the club's official online store! Check in with what the Pride of Nottingham members think by visiting our discussion on the new home shirt - be sure to leave your thoughts.

Connell Rawlinson has officially departed Meadow Lane by mutual consent, ending a memorable five-year tenure at the historic club. In response to the announcement of his release, Rawlinson has shared a heartfelt message expressing his gratitude and reflecting on his impactful journey with Notts County. Rawlinson’s statement captures the essence of his dedication and experience at the club: "It's been some ride. Literally blood, sweat and tears to the cause but worth every second. The club has given me and my family memories that will last forever, and I'll be forever grateful for that.” Arriving at the beginning of Notts County's first season in the National League, Rawlinson quickly became a first-team regular. His committed and passionate displays earned him the Fans’ Player of the Year award, as well as the shared title of Players’ Player alongside Kyle Wootton. Reflecting on his journey, Rawlinson remarked, "To have played for such a historic club like Notts County has been an honour and privilege. I've played every game knowing that and all you can do is give your all, and I'd like to think I did that." Rawlinson remained a key figure in the squad throughout his time in the fifth tier of English football. His dedication was fittingly rewarded when Cedwyn Scott’s penalty secured the club's return to the English Football League (EFL), a goal that Rawlinson always aspired to achieve. "I take pride in knowing that I achieved what I set out to do when I signed for the club all those years ago, which was to help the club get back to the football league,” Rawlinson noted. Appreciative of the fans' support, Rawlinson added, "Thanks to the fans that have always played a massive part in my journey at Meadow Lane. I tried to give as much time as I could to you because you are literally the backbone of this football club, so thank you." Rawlinson, who leaves Meadow Lane as a fan, expressed his best wishes for the club’s future. "I want to wish the club, players and staff all the very best for the coming season, and I'll be keeping a keen eye on what I hope is another successful season for the club.” Board member Richard Montague also expressed gratitude for Rawlinson’s contributions, stating, “Connell’s contribution throughout his time at Meadow Lane is hugely appreciated by everyone.” In his final words to the fans, Rawlinson poignantly shared, "I signed here as a player, but I can honestly say I'm leaving as a fan. The club will forever hold a special place in my heart. You know the saying, 'once a Pie always a Pie.' Thank you so much." As Connell Rawlinson bids farewell to Meadow Lane, his heartfelt message resonates deeply with fans, marking the end of an era for a defender who truly gave his all for the club. Read about Connell Rawlinson's departure from Notts County, with Richard Montague sharing his thoughts on the mutual release of the centre back. The Pride of Nottingham community is rallying together to express their heartfelt farewell messages for Connell Rawlinson. Join in and share your own thoughts and memories.

Connell Rawlinson’s remarkable five-year journey at Meadow Lane has come to an end by mutual consent. The popular defender, who joined at the start of the club’s debut season in the National League, leaves behind a legacy of commitment and passion that has endeared him to fans and teammates alike. Rawlinson quickly established himself as a mainstay in the first team, earning the Fans’ Player of the Year award thanks to his fervent and dedicated performances. His exceptional efforts on the pitch also saw him share the Players’ Player of the Year title with fellow squad member Kyle Wootton. Throughout the club's stint in the fifth tier of English football, the 32-year-old remained a pivotal figure in the squad. His dedication and hard work were fittingly rewarded when Cedwyn Scott’s penalty secured the club's return to the English Football League (EFL) – a cherished goal that Rawlinson had always strived to achieve. Reflecting on Rawlinson's departure, board member Richard Montague expressed heartfelt appreciation for his contributions: “Connell’s contribution throughout his time at Meadow Lane is hugely appreciated by everyone. “We have no doubt he’ll be a huge asset to his next club and wish him and his young family the very best of luck for the future.” As Connell Rawlinson bids farewell to Meadow Lane, he leaves behind not just memories of a stalwart defender but also an indelible mark on the club’s history. His passionate displays and unwavering commitment will be fondly remembered by all who witnessed his tenure in black and white. Pride of Nottingham members are writing a farewell message to Connell Rawlinson. Join in and share your memories of the centre back and wish him well. Do you have a passion for Notts County? We're seeking fans to join our growing community, whilst also seeking openings for our team here at the Pride of Nottingham.

Notts County striker Macaulay Langstaff finds himself at the centre of intense transfer speculation, leaving fans anxious about his future at Meadow Lane. Championship side Millwall has submitted a bid for the prolific striker, while former Notts County head coach Luke Williams has also shown interest in bringing Langstaff to Swansea City. Millwall head coach Neil Harris has not held back in acknowledging Langstaff's prowess. Speaking to the South London Press, Harris stated, “I’m fully aware of what has been written in the press and leaked online. But I am not prepared to talk about other club’s players in detail. What I will say is I’m fully aware of the player, having started last season in League Two and seen a lot of the player at the start of the season and watched a lot of National League football the season before. I’m fully aware of his attributes.” Langstaff, who was named Notts County captain ahead of the 2024/2025 campaign, has been instrumental in the club’s recent success. The 27-year-old forward proved his goal-scoring mettle last season, clinching the Golden Boot in League Two with 28 goals and six assists while playing every game. His remarkable performance came after an equally stellar season in the National League, where he amassed 46 goals and assists in 45 games, crucially aiding the Magpies’ promotion. Despite this, the Magpies' management must now consider the looming possibility of losing one of their key assets. Transfers rumours indicate that Swansea City, Sunderland, and Middlesbrough are also closely monitoring Langstaff's situation. The interest from Luke Williams at Swansea City is particularly noteworthy, given his familiarity with the striker from his tenure at Notts County. Notts County’s recent patchy form towards the end of the 2023/2024 season, where they finished 14th, has put the club under pressure to bolster their squad. While they have made some defensive reinforcements, losing a player of Langstaff’s calibre could represent a significant blow. The club does have other strikers such as David McGoldrick and Alassana Jata, but replacing Langstaff's consistent goal-scoring would be a formidable challenge. Langstaff's departure would not only impact Notts County on the pitch but also commercially. He has been a central figure since his arrival from Gateshead for a fee close to £50k, creating fruitful partnerships, most notably with Jodi Jones, who provided 24 assists last season. Millwall, on the other hand, are keen to strengthen their attacking options. They finished 13th last season but have shown promise under Neil Harris’s management. The Lions’ top scorer last season, Zian Flemming, netted just seven goals, highlighting the necessity for a prolific striker like Langstaff. With only Kevin Nisbet and Tom Bradshaw currently spearheading Millwall’s attack, Langstaff’s arrival could provide the firepower needed to push up the Championship table. As the speculation continues, Notts County fans remain hopeful that Langstaff will stay, yet they understand the significant impact a move could have financially and on their squad depth. The Pride of Nottingham is discussing the speculation surrounding star striker and club captain, Macaulay Langstaff - join the conversation here. Do you need motivation as to why you should join the Pride of Nottingham? Take a moment to read this - we also have openings in our team!

Finding a home for in-depth discussion and fervent fandom has never been easier for Notts County supporters. Established in 2010, Pride of Nottingham - initially launched as a message board back in 2006 - has grown into an indispensable online community for everyone passionate about the club. Tracing its origins to flyer campaigns aimed at attracting fans during the 2013-14 season, Pride of Nottingham has continually evolved. Today, it serves as a bustling hub where spirited discussions and valuable insights converge. A Community Embracing All Ages The platform invites fans of all ages to engage, though it primarily focuses on individuals aged 14 and upwards - with parental permission required for participants under 18. This inclusive approach ensures that new generations can experience and contribute to the dialogue surrounding their favourite football club. Robust Content Offering Dedicated to delivering high-quality content, Pride of Nottingham covers every aspect of the fan experience: Breaking News: Stay current with up-to-the-minute reports on what’s happening around Notts. Detailed Articles: Insightful write-ups curated by gifted fans delving deep into various aspects of the club. Match Coverage: Comprehensive pre-game previews and post-match reports ensure you miss nothing. Exclusive Interviews & Features: From player interviews to feature stories highlighting unique perspectives. Community Blogging & Free Wallpapers: Engage through personal blogs and enhance your devices with themed wallpapers. Impressive Engagement Stats Boasting an active user base averaging between 50–80 members daily, complemented by around 30 highly engaged contributors, the platform is constantly buzzing with activity. On busy days, guest visitors can swell from anywhere between 60 and 200. Articles published here gain significant attention too; they average between 2,000 and 3,000 views - while forum posts can range from a modest 100 views up to more than 5,000+. Impressively, total article views have surpassed the 6.2 million mark. Star Contributors Driving Value Key figures within this thriving community notably enhance its value: TheSkipper (Lewis Thompson): A journalist trained at the University of Leeds, bringing professionalism to every piece he crafts. ARLkomski: A household name among fans for his incredible insights complemented by engaging video content. Simon Clark: Renowned for thought-provoking contributions that leave readers pondering. Regular users like Piethagoram and Fan of Big Tone add everyday richness to ongoing discussions by sharing their unique perspectives. Future Events & Discussions While Pride of Nottingham currently doesn’t host live events, it’s a go-to destination for pre-game build-ups and post-game analysis via live discussions - a feature designed to provide immediate insight into key issues affecting Notts County. There are also plans on the horizon for in-person gatherings resuming in 2024. Join Our Passionate Team We are excited to announce that we have openings to join our passionate team at Pride of Nottingham. If you are enthusiastic about Notts County and have a flair for creating engaging content, we would love to hear from you. Whether you are a writer, a social media whiz, or someone who thrives on community engagement, there's a place for you on our team. Help us continue to grow and provide top-notch coverage and insights for Notts County fans everywhere. https://prideofnottingham.co.uk/openings/ Pride of Nottingham stands as more than just a community - it’s a living library dedicated to celebrating Notts County through unfiltered fan passion and unparalleled camaraderie. Please do consider applying to join our team at the Pride of Nottingham; we encourage togetherness and work closely with contributors to ensure that they get the value in contributing. Join the Pride of Nottingham! You can sign up to our community by clicking on this call-to-action - your views, input and passion makes PON a vibrant place to visit.