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Notts County v Bradford City highlights

POST-MATCH | NOTTS COUNTY 4-2 BRADFORD CITY | LUKE WILLIAMS

POST-MATCH | NOTTS COUNTY 4-2 BRADFORD CITY | DAN CROWLEY

HIGHLIGHTS | NOTTS COUNTY 4-2 BRADFORD CITY

In the world of football dreams, playing at Wembley Stadium stands as a pinnacle achievement for many. London-born Jodi Jones, currently shining at Notts County in League Two, is living this dream not once but twice within six months. Representing Malta, he reflects on the excitement and gratitude that accompany such a unique experience. "It's the biggest stadium; just seeing it every single day, I think every kid dreams of playing at Wembley. I've been looking forward to this for a long time. It's finally here, so yeah, very excited," says Jones, visibly thrilled about returning to the iconic venue. Six months after a memorable playoff final, Jones finds himself back at Wembley. Acknowledging the rarity of such an opportunity, he feels blessed. "Some people don't get to play at Wembley throughout their whole career, you know? I'm feeling blessed. It's very exciting." Despite having experienced the grandeur before, Jones remains captivated by the sheer magnificence of Wembley. "It's got a beautiful view in here. It was pretty nice waking up to this view this morning—Wembley Stadium right outside. Just makes it that little bit more exciting, you know?" Reflecting on the significance of the upcoming game, Jones acknowledges the challenges of playing against one of the best footballing nations in the world. "It's a massive game. One of the best stadiums in the world. Everybody wants to play there, and, like I said, I've been lucky enough to play here a few times." In the recent match, Jones came on for Malta in the 59th minute, replacing Paul Mbong. Despite a spirited performance, Malta was defeated by England 2-0, with goals from Enrico Pepe (own goal) in the 8th minute and Harry Kane in the 75th minute. Declan Rice also had a goal disallowed for offside by VAR in the 76th minute. Expressing admiration for the opposition, Jones recognizes the quality of the squad he is up against. "Playing against the best nation in the world right now. The players they have, the squad is ridiculous. Either them or France are the best in the world, you know? You have to dream big sometimes." Despite the tough challenge ahead, Jones remains optimistic and emphasises the unpredictable nature of football. "You never know what's going to happen. But at the same time, we obviously know how good they are, and we played against them not so long ago." Switching gears to off-field interests, Jones reveals his fondness for Arsenal, proclaiming himself a "big Arsenal fan." His dedication goes to the extent of checking the Arsenal players called up for international duty and even securing a prized possession from a fellow player. "I spoke to James Madison and said to him, 'If you can get me Saka's shirt, I'll be over the moon,' and he sorted it for me. So I thank him for that all the time." Reflecting on his journey, Jones acknowledges the challenges, particularly a significant injury. "I always knew it was going to be tough, but I always believed in my ability. I got to take this opportunity while I can, go and play some football." Jones expresses gratitude for the support from family and friends during difficult times. "I could have given up, but I didn't. With the support of all my family and friends, now they're getting to come and experience all these good things. I'm really happy for them." As the conversation turns personal, Jones shares a poignant story about his great nan, a long-time supporter. Despite her age making travel difficult, he fondly mentions, "I'm from London myself. My family lives in London, so it's easier for them to come to this game. Because it's such a big game, it's kind of one you can't miss." In the midst of the anticipated crowd at Wembley, Jodi Jones might not spot his great nan, but her presence would be the highlight of his day. For this London-born talent, representing Malta at Wembley is more than a game; it's a culmination of dreams and a celebration of resilience and support. We have prints of Jodi Jones from this season, donned in the iconic black and white shirt as well as our delightful blue shirt. All existing prints in stock have been graciously autographed by Jodi - secure yours today! Participate in the pride of Nottingham’s match discussion, share your views on the opposition and express your hopes for how Notts will perform against Bradford City.

Excitement is in the air as tomorrow's match between Notts County and Bradford City draws near. Fans are brimming with eagerness, ready to see their beloved teams return to the pitch once again. The iconic Meadow Lane, home to Notts County, is set to be the stage for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Notts County, under the astute leadership of manager Luke Williams, has been navigating through a challenging season. Despite facing formidable opponents and enduring a few setbacks, the team has shown resilience and a fighting spirit. The upcoming match against Bradford City presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. As the team prepares for the clash, the focus is on learning from experiences and improving their game plan. In an in-depth interview, Notts County manager, Luke Williams, offered a candid assessment of the team's recent performances and a preview of the upcoming match against Bradford City. Williams provided a balanced perspective on the team's recent challenges, stating, "It's fair to say that there wasn't a huge gap in the level of the teams. I don't see a huge chasm between where we are and where we want to be." His comments reflect a measured understanding of the team's position relative to top-tier opponents. The manager acknowledged the stiff competition faced against formidable opponents like Mansfield and Wrexham. He praised Mansfield as an "excellent group" and noted the team's competitiveness in the Wrexham game, highlighting the resilience of Notts County in challenging fixtures. With an eye on the upcoming clash against Bradford, Williams discussed the unique challenges posed by a team undergoing managerial changes. "We have a feeling that the team could look very different to the one that we can watch back over the last few games," he stated. He emphasised the importance of focusing on their own game plan, aiming to ensure that Notts County's strategy dominates on the pitch. Addressing rumours surrounding his potential departure, Williams remained composed, stating, "Speculation is speculation. Until something real happens, I just ignore it." He reiterated the alignment of goals between himself and the club, stating, "We're ambitious. We want to be playing consistently at a higher level than what we are, and that's the task in front of us." As Notts County grapples with the challenge of keeping pace with top-performing clubs in the league, Williams candidly acknowledged the difficulty. "Teams at the top of the league are very powerful. They deserve to be where they are," he conceded. Despite the demanding competition, he expressed unwavering readiness for the task at hand, stating, "We've got a huge task, and we're prepared for that task. It's very demanding." Shedding light on the strategic recruitment strategies employed by top-performing clubs, Williams stated, “I think it’s probably fair to say that Wrexham recruited a team well in advance of the National League, and they’ve done that exceptionally well.” This insight underscores the meticulous planning and foresight that goes into building a successful football team. Williams' insightful interview provided a thorough analysis of Notts County's recent performances and the challenges that lie ahead. His commitment to the team's success was evident throughout the discussion. As Bradford City looms on the horizon, the team is gearing up to regroup, draw lessons from their experiences, and deliver a performance that meets their ambitions and the high expectations of the passionate Notts County fanbase. Check out the Pride of Nottingham web store for our latest t-shirt designs and much more! Macaulay Langstaff, David McGoldrick, John Bostock, Kyle Cameron, and Jodi Jones are all ready for you. Click here to find them. In addition to t-shirts, we have digital portraits of the current squad and many past players, including heroes, legends, and icons of Notts County. Please take a moment to look here as well.

JODI'S WEMBLEY RETURN

TRAINING | BOYS PREPARE FOR BANTAMS

Tommy Lawton: The Debut Goal and the Fight for Fair Pay (15th November 1947) On a chilly Saturday, the 15th of November 1947, a new era dawned for Notts County as 'Tommy Lawton' made his debut. Just two days after signing for the club, Lawton marked his first appearance with a goal against Northampton Town. The anticipation of Lawton's debut drew a crowd of over 18,000 spectators to the Cobblers’ County Ground. The spectators were not disappointed as Lawton opened the scoring, and Jack Marsh added another to secure a 2-1 victory for Notts County. This marked the beginning of the 'Lawton Era'. Lawton, a centre-forward of exceptional talent, was a vocal advocate for better pay for footballers during his career. Despite his status, Lawton earned a modest income compared to today's footballers. His discontent led him to make a surprising career move in 1947. Despite being hailed as the world's greatest centre forward, Lawton joined Notts County, a Third Division team, primarily for financial reasons. His friend Arthur Stollery, the manager of Notts County and former physiotherapist at Chelsea, convinced him to make the move. Roy Carroll: The Double Duty (15th November 2014) Fast-forward to the same date, 67 years later, on the 15th of November 2014, another memorable event unfolded in the history of Notts County. Goalkeeper 'Roy Carroll' displayed an extraordinary commitment to the club. Carroll played at Coventry City less than 24 hours after representing Northern Ireland in a European Championship qualifying match in Romania. His efforts were not in vain, as Garry Thompson’s strike secured the points for Notts and lifted them to fourth in the League One table. Carroll's performance was so impressive that it prompted club chairman Ray Trew to praise him highly, stating that Carroll's actions "epitomised everything that is right about Notts County at the moment." The dedication of Carroll to Notts County was evident in his own words. Despite having only a few hours of sleep, he was ready to play for the club. "For me, playing for Notts County back in the English league is fantastic. In the summer nobody was interested in me and Shaun Derry gave me a chance to come back to England, and it’s a great pleasure for me to come back here and play for Notts County," he said. He also praised the defenders in front of him for helping ensure that the club kept a ninth clean sheet of the season. These two events, though separated by many years, both occurred on the 15th of November and have left an indelible mark on the history of Notts County. They stand as a clear demonstration of the dedication and talent of the players who have represented Notts County. Join in with the Pride of Nottingham by sharing your opinions inside our forum discussions. You can quickly get involved using our popular 'topicfeed' page. The Pride of Nottingham match discussion as Notts County prepare to host Bradford City on Saturday is now live. Share your pre-and-post-match thoughts with us. We would love to see your input!

PRESS CONFERENCE | BRADFORD CITY (H) | LUKE WILLIAMS

Crewe Alexandra v Notts County highlights

POST-MATCH | CREWE ALEXANDRA 1-0 NOTTS COUNTY | LUKE WILLIAMS

As Notts County prepare for their forthcoming match against a formidable Crewe Alexandra, Head Coach Luke Williams provides an insightful perspective on the challenges that lie ahead. Williams, who has previously encountered Crewe in his managerial career, is well aware of their consistent performance. "They're always good. I've been up against Crewe for Swindon Town, so many times for MK Dons, and they're just always excellent. They always get the maximum out of players," Williams admits, underlining the persistent quality and effectiveness of Crewe's strategy. This is a testament to Crewe's ability to nurture talent and consistently perform at a high level, a trait that Williams acknowledges and respects. Williams, with his strategic mindset, emphasises the significance of resilience, stating, "We fought very hard to get to this division, and we're going to make the most of being here. We're going to stand up to be counted." This unwavering commitment to confront challenges head-on is a testament to the coach's resolve to make Notts County a force that cannot be ignored. in League Two. His words echo the spirit of determination and tenacity that is characteristic of the team. Turning his attention to the FA Cup, Williams expresses the team's collective aspiration for a significant cup run, saying, "We've not been able to give [the fans] that since I've been here. So that would be really special." The possibility of an exhilarating match against a higher division team adds an extra layer of excitement for both the players and the supporters. This anticipation is palpable, adding to the fervour of the upcoming matches. In the course of the interview, Williams expresses his admiration for Jodi Jones, who is poised to represent Malta at Wembley. Despite the unfortunate timing, the coach is thrilled for Jones, highlighting the player's resilience and determination. "I'm disappointed because I want him with me. But I'm delighted for him, and I've given him my full support," Williams remarks, reflecting on Jones's personal accomplishment. This sentiment underscores the supportive and nurturing environment within the team, where individual achievements are celebrated. This in-depth examination unveils the strategic methodology and unfaltering resolve of Williams, shedding light on the trials and prospects brought forth by Crewe and the FA Cup. The scrupulous groundwork and dedication to triumph lay the foundation for Notts County’s audacious endeavour, combining a storied football legacy with a progressive outlook. The squad's dedication to superiority is evident, as they endeavour to etch their insignia in the annals of football. Their journey is a captivating tale of tenacity, aspiration, and the ceaseless quest for accomplishment. This ongoing narrative not only seizes the affections of supporters but also kindles the aspirations of forthcoming generations of footballers. Join in with the Pride of Nottingham match discussion ahead of tomorrow's game against CreweAlexandra, and share your pre- and post-match thoughts. Check out the Pride of Nottingham dashboard page, where you can find all the latest content across the site, such as articles, blogs, forum discussions and much more!

PRESS CONFERENCE | CREWE (A) | DON GOSLING

Notts County's recent acquisition of Dan Gosling has injected a renewed sense of optimism and anticipation into the heart of Meadow Lane. Head Coach Luke Williams expressed his overwhelming joy in landing the highly skilled midfielder on a temporary contract during a post-match interview, depicting the signing as "really great." Williams underscored the need for a measured approach to integrating Gosling into the squad, emphasising, "We just need to be responsible about how we get him up to speed and on the pitch." This prudent consideration signifies the coaching staff's commitment to maximizing Gosling's impact without rushing the process. Recognising the invaluable influence of Gosling's experience, Williams remarked, "You give your experience, it is passed on to people." This acknowledgment not only underscores the potential on-field contributions of the seasoned midfielder but also highlights the broader impact on the squad's overall development. With a significant portion of the Notts County line-up possessing National League backgrounds, the addition of Gosling, a player with extensive Premier League experience, introduces a refreshing dynamic. Williams acknowledged the existing disparity in levels, noting, "We've been lining up with maybe 7 or 8, on some occasions, 9 players that were playing National League football last season." This candid acknowledgment reflects a strategic awareness of the challenges posed by transitioning from National League to League Two. The coach's recognition of this disparity indicates a thoughtful and strategic approach to navigating the unique hurdles of promotion. Gosling's arrival, with his top-flight pedigree, is viewed as a significant asset in bridging that gap and elevating the team's overall standard. Williams also touched on the positive impact of players who have experienced higher levels of football, stating, "We have some real quality and experience in the squad." The influx of players like Gosling is seen as advantageous for the squad's development, with their wealth of experience providing a valuable resource for the less seasoned players. The arrival of Gosling has sparked a wave of excitement, particularly among those new to league football. This strategic infusion of experience, combined with the coach's calculated and progressive approach, lays the groundwork for an optimistic phase in Notts County's campaign. The team, especially Williams, is thrilled. Significantly, this extended analysis underscores the transformative impact of Dan Gosling's signing. It brings to light the meticulous approach to integration and its positive influence on squad development, all within the ambit of a strategic and ambitious coaching vision. This could potentially bring about an uplift. Have a look at the Pride of Nottingham online shop for some brand-new merchandise, including t-shirts and player prints for this current season. Get yours today with free delivery! We greatly value your support. Please consider contributing to our site’s upkeep and help us cover some of our costs. This would be very much appreciated.

PRESS CONFERENCE | CREWE (A) | LUKE WILLIAMS

Lincoln City v Notts County highlights

In a gruelling encounter at Sincil Bank, Lincoln City emerged as victors, sealing a 2-0 win against Notts County in a contest that had the Notts County faithful experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions. The match commenced with an air of anticipation, and both sides wasted no time in showing their intent. Lincoln City, playing host, set the tone early on. In the 6th minute, the Imps seized the initiative when Jack Burroughs clinically dispatched a right-footed shot from the right side of the box into the bottom right corner. Unfortunately for the visitors, the goal came on the back of an earlier offside call, which temporarily offered a glimmer of hope to Notts County. The first half witnessed intense action, characterized by moments of attacking brilliance and stout defending. Lincoln City's Paudie O'Connor found his name in the referee's book after a rash challenge, and Notts County's Oliver Tipton also received a yellow card for a foul. Despite the visitors creating opportunities, the hosts' solid defensive work left Notts County unable to make their mark on the scoreboard. As the first half drew to a close, Lincoln City held the lead at 1-0, leaving Notts County fans hoping for a turnaround in the second period. The second half unfolded with a sense of urgency, as Notts County sought to level the score. Offside calls continued to punctuate the match, though Notts County pressed forward in their pursuit of an equalizer. Dan Gosling and Richard Brindley were introduced as fresh legs by the visitors, aiming to shift the momentum in their favour. However, Lincoln City's defence stood strong, denying Notts County's advances. An injury to Jaden Brown forced a substitution, with Olamide Shodipo taking his place. In the 67th minute, the match's decisive moment arrived, leaving Notts County supporters disheartened. Jack Vale, wearing Lincoln City's colours, found himself in a favourable position and calmly slotted home a right-footed shot from the centre of the box, leaving Notts County's custodian with no chance. It was a fast break that caught the visitors off guard and effectively sealed the game for the Imps. Substitutions and injuries continued to punctuate the match, but Notts County's valiant efforts failed to breach the resolute Lincoln City defence. The final score stood at 2-0 in favour of the home team. In conclusion, while the scoreline may not have been to the liking of Notts County fans, the tenacity and determination of their team should serve as a source of pride. The visitors exhibited attacking prowess and unyielding commitment throughout the encounter. Lincoln City, on the other hand, showcased a resolute defence and a knack for capitalizing on their opportunities. The victory further solidified their position in the league. As both teams now regroup and prepare for their upcoming fixtures, Notts County supporters can find solace in the spirited display put forth by their players. The team's dedication and spirit were evident, and they will undoubtedly look to bounce back from this setback with renewed vigour and determination in the matches that lie ahead. What are your thoughts on the game? Join the Pride of Nottingham match discussion to share your thoughts with fellow fans who think alike. Read up about Dan Gosling's thoughts on signing for Notts County, as the experienced midfielder adds valuable cover for the short term deal which lasts two months.

POST-MATCH | NOTTS COUNTY 0-2 LINCOLN CITY | LUKE WILLIAMS

In a recent interview, Dan Gosling, the former Premier League and Championship player, expressed his excitement about joining Notts County. "I feel really happy," he said, "the club is obviously doing really well this season, the stats speak for themselves." Gosling's enthusiasm for his new club is palpable, and his words reflect a player eager to make an impact. Gosling, who had been waiting for a good opportunity since November, was full of praise for the club and its management. "I've heard a lot of good things about the manager from various people. People speak really highly," he said. His admiration for the manager and the positive feedback he has received from others clearly played a significant role in his decision to join Notts County. Despite having the option to stay at Watford, Gosling chose to challenge himself at Notts County. "I wanted to challenge, I wanted to sort of be challenging for something, looking into the future as well," he explained. His desire for a new challenge, coupled with his ambition to be part of a successful team, led him to Notts County. He was particularly impressed by the club's performance last season and is eager to be part of a team that's winning and playing good football. The club's recent signings, including players like David McGoldrick and John Bostock, have also caught Gosling's attention. "It helps looking at the squad and how well they've done, and they've added, it means progression for the club," he said. The addition of such high-calibre players to the squad not only signifies the club's ambition but also provides Gosling with the opportunity to play alongside some of the best in the game. Gosling, who had a bad injury last year, has been training with the under 21s at Watford and at Wycombe to get some first-team environment under his belt. Now, he's eager to get out on the county ground and start playing some football. "It's just about playing games," he said. His determination to return to the pitch after his injury is commendable, and his eagerness to play is evident. Despite spending his entire career in the Premier League and the Championship, Gosling is excited about the challenge of playing in League 2. "Did I envisage going to League 2? If I'm honest, no. But here I am, and I'm going to embrace the challenge," he said. His willingness to step out of his comfort zone and take on a new challenge is a testament to his character and determination. "I couldn't have picked a better place. I'm really happy," Gosling concluded. His words reflect a player who is not only excited about his new journey but also confident in his decision. As he embarks on this new chapter with Notts County, fans and teammates alike will be eagerly anticipating his contributions on and off the pitch. The Pride of Nottingham relies on the support from the Notts County fan base in terms of helping maintain the site upkeep. if you are in a position please consider donating. Check out the Pride of Nottingham's popular dashboard page for all the latest across our site, find content from articles, blogs and forum posts. Get involved and share your thoughts today!

INTERVIEW | LUKE WILLIAMS PRE-LINCOLN

In a surprise turn of events, Notts County has announced the signing of central midfielder Dan Gosling on a short-term deal, subject to EFL approval. The 33-year-old Gosling, who boasts nearly 200 Premier League appearances with Everton, Bournemouth, and Newcastle, has signed on until 6 January and will wear the squad number 32. The Notts County board expressed their delight at the acquisition, stating, “We’re delighted to add a player of Dan’s pedigree to the squad at such an important time. We believe his obvious quality and experience will enable him to help the team in the short-term, which is vital given the unfortunate recent loss of Matt Palmer." Gosling's career has been marked by hard work, tenacity, and high accomplishment. His leadership skills and fantastic mentality have been praised throughout his career, qualities that the Notts County board believes align perfectly with the culture they're developing at the club. "He is fully aware of the culture we’re developing at the club and is coming here to win games and compete for success," the board added. The rest of Gosling's career has been spent in the Championship, most recently with Watford, for whom he played 17 times last season. His wealth of experience at the top levels of the game is expected to be a significant asset for Notts County as they navigate the season. The board concluded their statement with a warm welcome, saying, “We know our supporters will join us in welcoming Dan to the club and supporting him as he adapts quickly to life at Meadow Lane.” This move marks a significant moment for Notts County, as they bring in a player with a proven track record at the highest levels of English football. Gosling's arrival is expected to bolster the squad's midfield options and provide invaluable experience and leadership on and off the pitch. As Notts County fans eagerly anticipate Gosling's debut, there's a palpable sense of excitement at Meadow Lane. The addition of a player of Gosling's calibre signals the club's intent to compete and succeed, providing a significant morale boost for both the players and the fans. In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on Gosling as he dons the Notts County jersey and steps onto the pitch at Meadow Lane. His performance could very well be a defining factor in the club's season, and fans will be hoping that his experience and skill can help guide the team to success. As the season progresses, Gosling's impact at Notts County will be keenly observed. But for now, the message from the club and its fans is clear: Welcome to Meadow Lane, Dan Gosling. What are your thoughts on the signing of Dan Gosling? Do you hope we can further extend his deal or sign him permanently come January? Browse the Pride of Nottingham Dashboard page, which has been optimised recently for better performance. Let's make a move. immediately. and become a part of PON today.

FIRST INTERVIEW | DAN GOSLING