PON_News

Dan Crowley started his career at Aston Villa before moving to Arsenal at the age of 15. During his time at Arsenal, he was likened to Jack Wilshere, which added pressure to him as a young player. However, he sees himself as an individual and his own player. “It did add pressure probably without me even realising it because obviously I was still a young kid,” he said. “But when you ask about it, you know basing my game around you know the players. I like to see myself as an individual, and you know I’m Dan Crowley I’m my own player.” He spent some time playing in the Netherlands with Willem Twee, which helped him grow up as a person and learn about managing his body and being effective on the field. “Yeah really good it helped me grow up as a person. The first time I went you know I was only 19, and you know moving to a different country you know living on my own for the very first time you have to grow up straight away,” he said. Most recently, Crowley played for Morecambe in League One, where he had a fantastic debut and scored a couple of goals. “During that time you know that the support seemed to take you quite well, a fantastic debut by all accounts, and you got a couple of goals, a few assists,” said the interviewer. He had interest from other clubs this summer but chose to join Notts County because of the club’s style of play and its upward trajectory. He is looking forward to playing with the other midfielders at the club and sees himself fitting into a more attacking role in midfield. “Yeah great, they’re three really good players I know John Bostock quite well he’s a great lad, and you know top top player, so I’m just I’m looking forward to just getting in a team and playing with those guys,” he said. Geographical reasons were also a motivation for Crowley’s move to Notts County. He is from Coventry, which is not too far away from the club. “Yeah of course every like you know little thing helps you know it makes my life easier. I’m married, and I’ve got a little boy and a little girl due in a couple of weeks. So yeah, it definitely makes my life easier,” he said. Do you enjoy discussing Notts County? Why not join the Pride of Nottingham and become part of a like-minded community. Join the conversation about Dan Crowley’s arrival and share your thoughts on the midfielder.

FIRST INTERVIEW | DAN CROWLEY CHECKS IN

Notts County has confirmed a new addition to their team as Dan Crowley, who signs a two-year deal with Notts County. The 25-year-old, who graduated from Arsenal’s academy, joins the club after leaving Morecambe. Crowley quickly made a name for himself as one of Arsenal’s most promising young talents. He signed a professional contract in 2014 and progressed to the fringes of the first team while also being called up to the England youth setup. The Magpies' board of directors are delighted to have him on board. Born in Coventry, Crowley began his career in Aston Villa’s youth ranks. His performances against Arsenal caught the attention of Arsène Wenger who brought him to north London at the age of 15. A statement published on the Notts County website read: "As you might expect given his excellent pedigree, Dan has phenomenal technical ability which we believe can be deployed in deep and advanced midfield roles. He’s also very comfortable drifting into wider positions. "He has so many strengths in possession of the ball – a wide passing range, incisiveness, brilliant balance, rapid acceleration and wonderful close-control. He’s a real joy to watch when in full flow and is also an excellent set-piece taker. "Dan has tremendous experience from his many appearances in the Championship and League One, as well as in the Dutch top flight, and we think he’s a brilliant fit for our system. "While we already possess tremendous quality in central areas, we felt we needed to add more competition and depth and Dan will certainly provide that. "We also believe we can give him a structure and platform to thrive. We look forward to seeing him settle in." Crowley quickly impressed with his performances at Morecambe and will now be looking to make a strong start to life at Meadow Lane. Notts County believes he’s a brilliant fit for their system and will provide more competition and depth in central areas. The club also believes they can give him a structure and platform to thrive. They look forward to seeing him settle in and make an impact on the pitch. What do you think about the signing of Dan Crowley? Share your thoughts on the Pride of Nottingham forum. Get involved with PON by visiting the dashboard and checking out the latest content that our members are discussing.

Notts County midfielder Jim O’Brien has had a unique journey with the club. He has experienced both the highs and lows of football, from relegation to the National League to promotion back to the EFL. In a recent interview, O’Brien reflected on his time with the club and what makes this coming season feel “more special” than any other. O’Brien’s journey with Notts County began with the goal of helping the club stay in the league. Unfortunately, despite his best efforts, the club was relegated to the National League. However, O’Brien remained with the club and played under several good managers who wanted to keep him on board. This perseverance paid off when Notts County was finally promoted back to the English Football League. Last season, O’Brien made nearly 30 appearances and scored four goals. When asked to rank his performances last year compared with previous seasons, he said it was “probably up there with some of the best I’ve played in my whole career.” He attributed this success to the manager and staff, as well as the responsibility he was given on and off the pitch. “It’s a unique position to be in,” O’Brien said. “Obviously when I first came in it was to help us stay in the league and unfortunately we sort of ran out of time in games, and we weren’t able to do it. So to still be here and play under some good managers and have them want to keep me on board, it’s quite a special feeling.” When asked to rank his performances last year compared with previous seasons, he said it was “probably up there with some of the best I’ve played in my whole career.” He attributed this success to the manager and staff, as well as the responsibility he was given on and off the pitch. “The responsibility he’s given me on the pitch, off the pitch, which probably wasn’t even spoken about in great detail, it was just that trust and belief that he had the understanding of and knew how he wanted to play quite quickly,” O’Brien said. O’Brien also spoke highly of manager Luke Williams and his coaching staff. He described Williams as “the best coach I’ve had” and praised the detail that goes into training sessions. O’Brien also mentioned that he has been able to impart his own experiences onto other members of the squad. “He gave us respect, and he was very open on matters behind the scenes or on the training pitch or just general round about the club,” O’Brien said. “So to have that responsibility and quite quickly and the understanding that he trusts the older lads, then it was a good feeling.” O’Brien also reflected on his role as an older player on the squad. He mentioned that he has been able to help younger players get up to speed quickly. “It’s something that comes quite natural,” O’Brien said. “It would have been easy last pre-season for the gaffer to come in and as a young manager and a young coach to just sort of bend off the older lads. I’ve been at clubs where young coaches don’t really like any sort of pushback, or they feel maybe threatened or pushed back from older pros but that certainly wasn’t the case straight away.” Check out the latest discussions with the Pride of Nottingham and be sure to join in and have your say! Notts has started its search for a new CEO; share your thoughts on this process.

Notts County captain Kyle Cameron has committed his future to the club by signing a two-year contract extension. The 26-year-old defender has been a crucial figure for the Magpies since his arrival two years ago. Cameron was out of contract this summer after leading Notts County to promotion at Wembley. The club's board of directors, together with head coach Luke Williams, are delighted to retain his services. The extension of Cameron's contract is a clear indication of the club's faith in his abilities and leadership. His performances on the pitch have been instrumental in the team's success and the club is confident that he will continue to play a vital role in their future. A statement published via the Notts County website praised Cameron's unique skillset as a left-sided centre-back. "Not only has he had a vital role as captain, but he’s also pivotal to how we play," the statement read. "He was part of a defence that conceded only 42 goals last season and, by retaining him, we ensure continuation in personnel which we hope will lead to another defensively-sound campaign." Cameron's ability on the ball and consistency in delivering dangerous crosses into the box were also highlighted. "Kyle has a very unique skillset as a left-sided centre-back, being so comfortable on the ball, confident in progressing the play and consistent in delivering dangerous crosses into the box," the statement continued. The club expressed their excitement at retaining Cameron and providing him with the right platform to continue his growth as a player. "We also feel we can provide Kyle with the right platform and environment to continue his growth as a player, and we’re excited to see how he performs over the next two seasons," the statement concluded. The news of Kyle Cameron’s contract extension has been met with great enthusiasm from Notts County fans. The club’s captain has been a key figure in their recent success and his commitment to the team for another two years is a positive sign for the future. With his unique skillset and leadership qualities, Cameron is sure to continue playing a vital role in the team’s success. The club and its supporters are excited to see what he will achieve in the coming seasons. Exciting news! Kyle Cameron has agreed to a new 2-year deal with Notts. Come share your thoughts with us. Do you have a moment to share your opinions on the latest football news? Check out the Pride of Nottingham’s dashboard page and join the discussion.

Jodi Jones, the winger for Notts County, has had quite a journey. After first joining on loan and helping the club fire themselves to promotion via Wembley, he signed a permanent 2-year-deal. Now, he's been called up to represent Malta and is preparing to play against England. In an interview with Nick Richardson of Notts County's media team, Jones shared his thoughts on his recent experiences with the Malta national team. "I was a little bit disappointed when I realised I wasn't going to get much of a summer," he said. "But it's part of football." Jones played in a different position than he's used to while with Malta. "When I come here I normally play as a striker but not as an out-and-out striker. I can kind of drop into the pockets and get the ball up and running behind as well," he explained. "I just try to get on the ball as much as possible. I love having the ball at my feet." Malta's formation is different from Notts County's, with wing backs and central defensive midfielders. "We try to play as compact as possible," Jones said. Despite this, he still tries to play in the pockets and adopt the striker role as a number 10 role. "I try to do a bit of both but yeah, I really enjoyed it. I was getting on the ball a lot making things happen." Jones also shared his thoughts on playing against England. "It's one of the biggest games of my life," he said. "Obviously, the game at Wembley for Notts was up there because of what it meant and where it was gonna take us. With this game, obviously, it's a bit different. People don't expect us to win." The general message from Malta's coaches going into the game against England is to work hard but smartly. "We don't want to concede any sloppy goals from set pieces," Jones said. "We want to stay in the game for as long as possible." Jones is learning a lot from his experiences with Malta and becoming a more well-rounded player. "I love learning when they tell me what to do, and they stay out with me and practice with me," he said. Notts County fans will be supporting Jones on Friday but also keeping an eye on his return for pre-season. Jones is in touch with the club and working with strength and conditioning coach Ian Hutton to prepare for the season. Jones' journey from Notts County to Malta national team has been an exciting one, and we can't wait to see what he'll do next. Check out this discussion on Fan of Big Tone dubbed ‘Jodi Jones is looking good’ and join in with PON. Do you enjoy hearing about fellow Magpie supporters and why they support Notts? Check out our story on Fan Tony ‘Poppa Bear’ Wood.

Tony Poppa Bear Wood has been a Notts County fan for around 39-40 years. Born in Beeston, Nottingham, he grew up watching football as a child. His love for Notts County began when his Grandad took him to his first game at the age of 3 or 4. "Back then it was an all-standing ground and I remember my grandad smoking his pipe and the smell. And from that day on, I was hooked on Notts County Football Club," he says. Tony's favourite memory as a Notts County fan is the Warnock era and the two back-to-back promotions via the playoffs. He went to both finals at the old Wembley. Standout matches include the FA Cup against Tottenham when Don O'Riordan scored the free kick. "Although we lost the game it still was a fantastic game," he says. Over the years, Tony has seen Notts County evolve. "Fans are very fickle; one week they are moaning because we lose, the next week they are shouting the praises of the team for winning," he says. He believes that Notts should do more of a free meet and greet with the squad. When asked what makes Notts County stand out from other teams in the league, Tony points to Luke Williams and Macauley Langstaff. "I think Luke Williams has made a massive impact on the team; we have heart, soul and passion and come together as a squad. Not forgetting Macauley Langstaff; what an absolute player he is," he says. Looking to the future, Tony is optimistic about Notts County's chances in the upcoming season. "I am really glad we gained promotion back to League 2 and gain our status back," he says. He believes that if they can keep hold of their current squad with a few new additions and keep gaining momentum, they can finish in the top half of League 2 and maybe even gain another promotion. Being a Notts County fan has even helped Tony through tough times in his life. "It was about 8 or 9 years ago, and I was rushed into hospital with double pneumonia and was in a coma; Notts County sent me a get-well card signed by all the players and manager at that time. And will never forget that," he shares. Tony's favourite Notts County chant or song is either Macauley Langstaff's song or Kyle Cameron's song, as well as Super Lukey Williams' song with "We know exactly what we need: Cameron at the back and Macca in attack." If he could say one thing to the players or coach, it would be: "Go out there and play real football; stop passing the ball back to the keeper... Attack is the best form of defence." He would also tell Aaron Nemane to run at players. If you enjoyed this article and would like to tell the Pride of Nottingham your story, then please contact the webmaster here. Check out the latest activity throughout the Pride of Nottingham website, join in and get involved! You are reading the background; we would love to get you on board. COYP!

INTERVIEW | JONES EXCITED TO FACE ENGLAND

In a recent interview, Notts County midfielder Jim O’Brien spoke about the club’s new signings. He expressed his excitement at having David McGoldrick join the squad, describing him as a player of “quality” who had a “long and distinguished career.” O’Brien also mentioned that McGoldrick turned down a deal to sign for the Rams opting for Notts County instead. “Well, first of all, to have someone of that quality on board is quite exciting for the club and for the dressing room,” O’Brien said. “25 goals last season and he’s 35, it’s pretty special. The fact that he turned down a deal at Derby to be here speaks volumes for the club, speaks volumes for him.” O’Brien also spoke about Sam Slocombe and Connell Rawlinson extending their stay at Meadow Lane. He described them both as important players for the club and expressed his pleasure at them staying on. “Connell’s one as well,” O’Brien said. “Maybe he probably thought last season he wasn’t going to play as much as he did and ended up getting in the team, and became an absolute machine for us at centre-back. So to have someone like that on board as well again is massive for the club.” Additionally, O’Brien mentioned Jodi Jones, who is staying with Notts County despite being in Malta preparing to play against England. O’Brien described Jones as an exciting player who can change a game quickly. “It took him a little while to get up to speed,” O’Brien said. “If we can get those defensive principles into him then I don’t see why he can’t play there [wing back]. Add another strength to his game if you like. Obviously we know he can operate in that number 8 position as well. It’s an exciting one.” O’Brien also spoke about Ruben Rodrigues moving on from Notts County. He praised Rodrigues’ progression in terms of maturity during his time with the club. “I think he deserves it,” O’Brien said. “I’ve seen a natural progression in Ruben in terms of maturity. He came here just wanting to nutmeg people and while he still did that, towards the end, his work rate over the years just became stronger and stronger.” O’Brien expressed optimism about the upcoming season and the new additions to the squad. He praised the quality of the new signings and their potential to contribute to the team’s success. O'Brien also spoke about the value of having experienced players like McGoldrick and Rawlinson on the squad. He said that their experience would be helpful in imparting knowledge onto younger players and helping them develop. "The fact that I've probably played my best football that I've played in my career last season is a big factor in me signing again," O'Brien said. "There was a part of me that maybe wanted to jump onto the coaching side of things with other opportunities but no, I'm not ready to stop yet. I'm fit, and I still feel that I've got a contribution to the team on the pitch and to the club." O'Brien expressed optimism about the upcoming season and the new additions to the squad. He praised the quality of the new signings and their potential to contribute to the team's success. Did you enjoy the article? Don’t forget to share it with a friend or leave a comment. If you haven’t already, be sure to sign up! The Pride of Nottingham dashboard is your one-stop location for all our content. Visit now to get involved!

David McGoldrick has revealed that he snubbed higher leagues and higher wages to join Notts County, the club he supports and where he started his career. The striker, who scored 25 goals for Derby County last season, said he chose happiness over money and wanted to be part of the Magpies' project. McGoldrick, who joined Notts County on a two-year deal, said he had other offers from bigger clubs, but he felt Notts County was the right place for him. He said he was impressed by the direction of the club under manager Luke Williams and the style of football they played. He said: "The sole decision was, you know, obviously this is the team I support, and I'm a Nottingham boy so, you know, it's perfect in that sense but, you know, I've watched the club, the direction they're going, you know, under the gaffer, I've been to games this season, I've watched them on telly, I was at Wembley and I think it's the general football that they play, the buzz around the place, I think they were onto something here, and I want to be a part of it." He added: "There were other options, financially, and bigger leagues, but I've learned through my career and through my life that money doesn't bring happiness. I think you have to find that happiness inside yourself. That's the truly believe that in life." McGoldrick also spoke about his best goal scoring season at Derby County last season, where he scored 25 goals and narrowly missed out on the play-offs. He said he was grateful for the experience and the support he received from the manager Paul Warner, the staff and the players. He said: "It was a great season for me personally. We just missed shy of the play-offs on the last day, I'm sure you'll have seen that. But yeah, scoring 25 goals, the manager Paul Warner and his staff have been fantastic to me. The boys, the players, they've been brilliant. They've scored all those goals without them. It's a massive club, and I'm sure they'll be fine next year and be fighting for that top spot in League One with the fan base and the players and the staff they've got." McGoldrick also praised Macaulay Langstaff, who scored 42 goals for Notts County last season. He said he could play in different positions and roles to complement Langstaff and help the team. He said: "Yeah for sure you know it's not just a number nine I'm sure people that know my game will know that you know I can play in various positions like you say there's a fantastic number nine at the minute scoring goals, and hopefully he scores many, many, many goals next season as well. So yeah, I'm just coming to play my part." McGoldrick said he was looking forward to pre-season under Williams and eager to earn his place in the team. He said he wanted to prove himself to the fans and show them what the shirt means to him. He said: "It's all good being from Nottingham and supporting the club and saying the right things on camera that I am now, but I've got to go out there and show what the shirt means to me and put the hard work in and prove that I deserve to wear the shirt." PON member AmericanPie and the rest of us would like to hear your thoughts on Notts County’s future prospects. Have your say! Join the discussion and share your opinion on PUMA being the kit supplier for Notts. Are you happy with their selection?

Jim O’Brien has agreed to a one-year contract with our club. The veteran midfielder is set to continue his journey with us for another season. At 35 years old, O’Brien is our longest-serving player. He first joined us midway through the 2018-19 season and has been a key member of the squad ever since. Despite making a strong impact that season, he was unable to prevent our relegation from League Two. However, his 29 appearances and five goals in the 2022-23 season saw him make a significant contribution to our return to the EFL. The Notts County Board of Directors and head coach Luke Williams have released a joint statement: “Jim is an incredibly valued member of the squad, and we were eager to keep him on board. “His quality, mentality and tenacity have been demonstrated time and time again, both last season and in previous campaigns. “With nearly 550 career appearances under his belt, he has a wealth of experience to share with the group – a role he embraces wholeheartedly. “Jim’s leadership on and off the pitch has been invaluable to the team. He has been a mentor to many of our younger players and his influence has been instrumental in their development.” Furthermore, he has an incredible connection with our supporters. He has been with them through our relegation, the National League years and our eventual promotion. “We are thrilled to see him represent us in the EFL once again.” As Notts County prepares for its return to the English Football League, Jim O’Brien’s decision to extend his stay at the club for another year is a positive development. His experience, leadership and connection with the supporters will continue to be invaluable assets as the team looks forward to a successful season. We encourage all fans to leave a comment in the Pride of Nottingham discussion about Jim O’Brien extending his stay for one more season. Charlie Slater has shared a story about David McGoldrick. Have a read and let us know your thoughts on this.

INTERVIEW | JIM O'BRIEN EXTENDS STAY

Oxford United have completed the signing of Rúben Rodrigues following the expiration of his contract with Notts County. The 26-year-old Portuguese forward officially joins the club on 1st July after successfully completing a medical and agreeing personal terms on a long-term deal. Rúben was instrumental in Notts County’s promotion-winning team that regained their English Football League status last season. A technically gifted footballer who has previously played for Dutch side Den Bosch, Rúben is a goal-scoring playmaker who can operate in a number of positions along the front line. Speaking to OUFC.co.uk, Rúben said: “It’s an exciting move for me. I loved my time at Notts County, "Last season was amazing, but this is a chance to test myself at a higher level." He added. "The way that the Coach wants to play is similar to the way I like to play. The training facilities are great, the club has big ambitions, and I can’t wait to get started.” Head Coach Liam Manning stated: “Rúben is a player that we watched a lot last season, and he was involved in so many goals, both scoring and creating. We feel there is even more to come from him and can’t wait to see him in pre-season and to start working with him.” The signing of Rúben Rodrigues is a major coup for Oxford United. With his technical ability and goal-scoring prowess, he will undoubtedly add quality to the squad and help the club push for promotion. Whilst Oxford United's Head of Player Recruitment, Ed Waldrom added: “There were a lot of clubs looking at him, which was hardly surprising given the way he has played for the last two seasons. "For him to choose to come to Oxford, based on the way we want to play and where we see the club going, is a fantastic endorsement for us. Our work continues behind the scenes to keep building the squad, and this is a really exciting first arrival of the summer.” Rúben's departure from Notts County marks the end of an era for the club, but his move to Oxford United presents an exciting new chapter in his career. Join in the discussion about fans’ thoughts on the latest rumour mentioned by Fan of Big Tone and share your thoughts. Check out this video of Jodi Jones whilst on international duty with Malta. He put in a great performance!

Ruben Rodrigues has announced his departure from Meadow Lane after a three-year stint. The 26-year-old Portuguese player has been a crucial member of the team since joining from the Netherlands in 2020. During his time at the club, he made a significant impact on and off the pitch, earning the respect and admiration of both fans and teammates. He played an instrumental role in last season’s promotion, scoring the goal that led to the play-off final being decided on penalties. Despite being offered the chance to extend his contract, which was due to expire this summer, Rodrigues has chosen to seek new opportunities. A statement from the club’s board of directors reads: "We would like to express our gratitude to Ruben for his outstanding contribution to the club since joining us in 2020. "By choosing to join us, he made a courageous decision to leave his family and friends behind and pursue his career in a foreign country. He can certainly be proud of his achievements. “Although we made a very attractive offer to keep him at the club, we respect his decision and wish him all the best for the future. He will be missed.” Rodrigues’ departure marks the end of a successful chapter at Meadow Lane. His contributions on and off the pitch will be fondly remembered by fans and teammates alike. As he embarks on his next adventure, we wish him all the best and look forward to seeing what he achieves in the future. Join in the discussion on the Pride of Nottingham in regard to Rúben Rodrigues’ departure from Notts. Have your say on the topic. Are you a member? Why not browse the dashboard page and join in with conversations that you might have an opinion on?

RUBEN RODRIGUES | ALL 54 NOTTS COUNTY GOALS

David McGoldrick has expressed his delight at returning to Notts County, the club he supports and where he started his career. The striker, who joined the Magpies on a two-year deal after leaving Derby County, said he felt at home at Meadow Lane and was impressed by the changes at the club. He had expressed his excitement at the prospect of playing for Notts County again. The striker, who joined the Magpies after leaving Derby County, said he was impressed by the changes at the club and was looking forward to contributing to its success. McGoldrick, who scored 25 goals for Derby County last season, said he was taken around the stadium and saw the new changing rooms and the new PA system being installed. He said he noticed the difference from when he was here as a teenager and said it was more up-to-date. He said: "Yeah, much different. I've been getting taken around the stadium, these changing rooms here, it's a completely different night and day to when I was here. It's more up to date, shall I say." He added: "It's nice to be back and see familiar things and familiar surroundings of when I was here years ago." McGoldrick also spoke about his memories of watching Notts County as a kid and visiting as a fan. He said he always felt a connection to the club and drove past the stadium often. He said: "Do you get that feeling of being at home when you walk around here, even though there's a lick of paint here and there, and you saw a new PA system being installed just as you were walking around? Yeah, it does. And even like, obviously I'm a Nottingham boy, so when I drive past the stadium, it brings back all the memories I have when I was a kid here. And I've been back here watching games many times. So yeah, I always get that feeling when I come here. It is home to me. It is my club, so it's proud, yeah." McGoldrick also reflected on his debut for Notts County against Sheffield Wednesday when he was 15 years old. He said he remembered the players and the staff who helped him at that time, such as Paul Heffernan, Kevin Pilkington, Gary Brazil and John Gawne. He said he owed a lot to them for bringing him through. He said: "Yeah, so I was still in school in year 11. I remember the way we were in the team then I think it was like the Paul Heffernans and then I got milled an all-in goal but yeah it was a fantastic moment I think the first game here was against Sheffield Wednesday. Bournemouth away we played at Travolta, remember the boys got me in the back playing poker when I was 15, 16 but yeah great memories and good times." McGoldrick also revealed that he had always wanted to come back to Notts County and did not want to miss the opportunity. He said he had other options in higher leagues and higher wages, but he chose to join Notts County for footballing reasons and personal happiness. He said: "I can't go into a specific time, but it's always been in the back of my mind. I've always been watching the scores from when I left the club many years ago, and obviously I've been back here many times, and I've always said I want to come back. And that might not have happened. This was a couple of years ago, the club in a different direction. It might not have happened, but with my contract expiring and the offer there for me to come back, I didn't want to look back in 10 years' time and think, I wasted this opportunity, I wish I did this." He also thanked his family for their support and said he was proud to show them his surroundings at Meadow Lane. He said he wanted them to be part of his journey at Notts County and see him perform again for his boyhood club. He said: "Yeah I told them that my aim is to finish at Notts County, so I want them to be part of it and to show them my surroundings, and they'll be at many games this season, they've already told me that. So yeah, family is massive to me, I'm a Nottingham boy and to show them that this is a club that I'm going to be playing for is a proud moment of a dad." David McGoldrick’s return to Notts County is a proud moment for the striker. He has always had a connection to the club and is excited to be back where it all began. With his family’s support, McGoldrick is determined to make the most of this opportunity and help Notts County achieve success. Drop some comments on our discussions and join in with the Pride of Nottingham community as we discuss all things Notts! Looking for some Notts County merchandise? Why not grab yourself a signed print or a t-shirt? Use the Messenger feature to reach out if you’re unsure.

Notts County is thrilled to announce that academy graduate David McGoldrick has returned to Meadow Lane and signed a two-year contract. The 35-year-old had a phenomenal 2022-23 season with Derby County, scoring 25 goals and earning the title of Fans’ and Players’ Player of the Season. Despite narrowly missing out on the Sky Bet League One play-offs, McGoldrick was offered the chance to stay at Pride Park. However, he has chosen to fulfil his long-held ambition of returning to his boyhood club. The board of directors and head coach Luke Williams are delighted to welcome back a player who was widely regarded as one of the top performers in the third tier. A statement from the club reads: “We’re overjoyed to welcome someone of David’s immense quality and experience. He joins us on the back of his best-ever goalscoring season, but his talents extend far beyond his ability in front of goal. David is an incredibly intelligent and intricate footballer who also boasts tremendous physicality. We believe he can be hugely effective in a number of attacking roles.” Nottingham-born McGoldrick progressed through Notts County's academy and made his senior debut at just 16 years old in a 2-1 home defeat to Swindon Town in 2004. He made another three appearances that season before being signed by then-Premier League side Southampton for an undisclosed fee. After returning to Notts County on loan in 2005-06, he established himself at St Mary’s and finished the 2008-09 season as the Saints’ top scorer with 14 goals. McGoldrick’s career then took him to Nottingham Forest, Coventry, Ipswich Town and Sheffield United. His performances for the Blades earned him an extension to his initial one-year deal, and he repaid them with 15 goals to help fire them into the Premier League. He went on to make 63 Premier League appearances for United, scoring 10 top-flight goals including a delightful finish against Arsenal which won him the club’s 2020-21 Goal of the Season award. After departing Sheffield United, McGoldrick signed a one-year contract with Derby County last summer. It proved to be an outstanding piece of business for Notts County's near neighbours as he scored an incredible three hat-tricks on his way to scoring 22 goals in League One. McGoldrick also boasts international experience having won 14 caps for Republic of Ireland and being voted the FAI’s Senior International Player of the Year in 2020. Check out the Pride of Nottingham community and join in the discussion using our dedicated “dashboard” page. If you own a business and would like to sponsor the Pride of Nottingham, please check out our advertising page.

WELCOME HOME | DAVID McGOLDRICK

MACAULAY LANGSTAFF | 2022-23 | ALL 42 GOALS