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Notts County's latest signing, Conor Grant, has expressed his delight and eagerness to hit the ground running at Meadow Lane following his move from MK Dons. Grant's transfer was finalised just one day before the club's League Two season opener against Tranmere Rovers, with the young midfielder joining as part of a deal that saw Aaron Nemane head in the opposite direction for an undisclosed fee. Grant, who is expected to add creativity and dynamism to Notts County's midfield, was introduced to the fans via an interview published on the club’s official website. The 22-year-old couldn’t contain his excitement about joining the Magpies, making it clear that he’s ready to contribute immediately. "Yeah, delighted. Delighted to be here," Grant began, still fresh from the emotions of his signing photoshoot. "I just really can't wait to get going now and be with all the boys, and, yeah, get going." Grant arrives at Meadow Lane with an intriguing résumé, having spent the latter half of the previous season on loan at Barnsley. The unusual move saw him step up to a higher division, and he made a notable impact with two assists in crucial games that saw Barnsley come heartbreakingly close to reaching the play-off finals. "Obviously, it was really good. Really good experience for me, playing in big games. Obviously, the playoff games were a great experience," Grant reflected. "But yeah, I really enjoyed my time there. So, yeah, looking forward to getting going." While Grant’s time at MK Dons began on a high, winning the club's Young Player of the Year award after a standout first season, things didn’t unfold as he would have liked in the following campaigns. The midfielder admitted it was difficult to see the club relegated, but he’s taking the lessons in stride as he embarks on this new chapter at Notts County. "Yeah, a bit of a weird one," he said of his time at MK Dons. "Obviously, that year we got relegated, which was a tough year for myself. So that was a tough one to take. But then the following year, yeah, it didn’t really happen for me. And that's football. You move on, you learn from it, and, yeah, just hoping for a good year this year." Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard is optimistic that Grant's arrival could be transformative. Speaking about the new signing, Maynard expressed his belief that Grant could finally find his footballing home at Meadow Lane, given the three-year deal the player has committed to. "He’s somebody that needs to really find his footballing home," Maynard remarked. "A three-year deal gives him the opportunity to do just that. We see the potential in Conor, and we believe that our ambitions as a club align perfectly with his personal goals." For Grant, the prospect of settling down and flourishing at Notts County was a key factor in his decision to join. He was particularly drawn to the club’s aspirations and style of play, which he believes align well with his own footballing philosophy. "I think the ambition the club has, you know, it’s a club that shouldn’t be in League Two, to be honest," Grant said. "And just speaking with the gaffer, the way he wants his team to play suits how I like to play football, so yeah, I think it’s a perfect match. And hopefully, it is." As for his playing style, Grant described himself as a player who thrives on being involved in the game and making things happen, whether as a number 10 or a number 8 in midfield. "Just getting on the ball, really, making things happen. It’s what I love to do and what I’ll try and do while I’m here," he explained, showing a clear understanding of his role and how he intends to contribute to the team. With the start of the 2024-25 League Two season imminent, Grant has no time to waste. Despite only just arriving, he’s already preparing to be part of the matchday squad for the season opener against Tranmere Rovers. The excitement is palpable as he looks forward to meeting his new teammates and making an instant impact. "Really looking forward to it. Obviously, nobody really likes preseason, so just looking forward to getting going and meeting all the boys, staff, everyone, and seeing the fans tomorrow. So yeah, it should be a good day," Grant concluded, ready to begin his journey with Notts County. As the season kicks off, Notts County fans will be eagerly watching to see if Conor Grant can fulfil the promise that both he and the club believe he has, helping the Magpies push for success in League Two. Be sure to add your pre- and post-match thoughts to the Pride of Nottingham match discussion; keep an eye on what fans have to say throughout the game against Tranmere Rovers. Read the Pride of Nottingham match preview for the opening day fixture against Tranmere Rovers, and be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments.

As the new League Two season kicks off, all eyes will be on Prenton Park this Saturday as Tranmere Rovers host Notts County in what promises to be an exciting encounter. Both teams will be eager to start their campaigns on a positive note, setting the stage for a thrilling match. Tranmere Rovers come into this game with a point to prove after a challenging previous season where they finished 16th in League Two with 57 points. Manager Nigel Adkins will be looking to build on their pre-season form and ensure his side hits the ground running. Tranmere's home form will be crucial, and the support of the Prenton Park faithful could provide the boost they need. Key players like Josh Davison and Tom Davies will be pivotal in both defence and attack, aiming to make a significant impact from the outset. On the other hand, Notts County will be riding high on confidence after a strong finish to their last campaign, where they secured a fourteeth-place finish. Under the guidance of Stuart Maynard, the Magpies have shown they can be a formidable force, particularly with the attacking prowess of Alassana Jatta, who enjoyed his pre-season and had found the net five times after signing in January of this year.. The addition of players like Daniel Crowley and Jodi Jones has bolstered their squad, adding depth and creativity to their line-up. The tactical battle between Adkins and Maynard will be fascinating to watch. Tranmere's defensive solidity will be tested against Notts County's dynamic attacking play. The Rovers will need to be disciplined at the back while looking to exploit any weaknesses in the Magpies' defence. Set-pieces could play a crucial role, with both teams having players capable of delivering quality balls into the box. For Notts County, maintaining their composure away from home will be key. Their away form last season was inconsistent, and they will need to address this if they are to challenge for promotion. The midfield battle will be intense, with both sides boasting players who can control the tempo and create opportunities. Notts County's ability to transition quickly from defence to attack could be a decisive factor in the outcome of the match. Fans can expect a high-energy game with plenty of goal-scoring opportunities. Both teams have shown they can find the back of the net, and this match could well be decided by which side is more clinical in front of goal. The atmosphere at Prenton Park will be electric, with both sets of supporters eager to see their teams start the season strongly. In summary, the clash between Tranmere Rovers and Notts County is set to be a captivating encounter. With both teams having much to prove and a desire to start the season on a high, this match promises to deliver excitement, drama, and plenty of talking points. Football fans are in for a treat as these two sides go head-to-head in what could be an early indicator of their ambitions for the season ahead. Read up on Notts County head coach thoughts, as Stuart Maynard discusses the start of the season and the teams' preparation for Tranmere Rovers. Cedwyn Scott is eager to take on his new role at Notts County, as the clubs number 9 - read up on his thoughts on Tranmere and the season ahead.

Pre-season Update 09.08.24 | Harry Mclean

As Notts County prepare to kick off their 2024-25 League Two campaign against Tranmere Rovers, Cedwyn Scott is relishing the opportunity to step into a more prominent role for the club. The forward, who joined the Magpies two years ago alongside Macaulay Langstaff, has been handed the coveted number 9 shirt following Langstaff's departure to Millwall. Scott’s promotion to the role is a significant milestone in his career, especially given the challenges he has faced over the past year. Reflecting on the injury that kept him sidelined for much of the previous season, Scott admitted that it was a difficult time for him. “It was a really, really difficult period in my career, sort of the first real serious injury I’ve had,” Scott said. “When I first went for the consultation, the doctor was pretty blunt and said, ‘It’s potentially career-ending,’ and I was taken aback and in shock.” Despite the severity of the injury, Scott remained determined to return to the pitch, focusing on his rehabilitation with the same commitment he shows on match days. “There was nothing that could be done except getting my head down and cracking on with it,” Scott continued. His hard work paid off, and he has since been a consistent presence in pre-season training. “I think I’ve been involved in every single session so far in pre-season and, you know, I’m feeling the rewards of that.” The departure of Langstaff has undoubtedly left big boots to fill, but Scott is eager to take on the responsibility that comes with wearing the number 9 shirt. “Obviously, when me and Macca [Macualay Langstaff] first came to the club, we had a discussion about who would have it. I had the 19 at Gateshead, and it was available here as well, so I let him have that one,” Scott explained. Now, with Langstaff moving on, Scott sought his friend's blessing to inherit the number. “I spoke to him and said, ‘Would you mind if I had that?’ and he said, ‘No, not at all.’ He’d love it, so yeah, happy to take on that burden.” Scott recognises the pressure that comes with the shirt, particularly at a club with as rich a history as Notts County. “It’s a massive club. I’m already very grateful to be here, playing for them,” Scott remarked. “To wear that number 9, which was my favourite number growing up, is a real honour as well as a burden, but I want that pressure. I want to have that mindset that I’m going to score goals.” Interestingly, Scott is set to operate in a slightly different role this season, transitioning from an out-and-out striker to more of an attacking midfielder. “I’ve typically been an out-and-out number 9, but I’m currently operating in more of an attacking midfield role,” he said. Despite the shift, Scott’s ambitions remain unchanged. “I just want to score goals and keep helping the team.” Looking ahead to the new season, Scott is optimistic, not just for himself but for the squad as a whole. “There’s been quite a big turnover of players, which since I’ve been here, we haven’t really had,” he noted. “The gaffer has done a lot of work on the training pitch, and I think we’re starting to gel really well.” The opening match against Tranmere Rovers marks a fresh start for Scott and his teammates, and the forward is determined to make the most of it. “Saturday, we should be in a really good place to go and try and hit the ground running, hopefully,” Scott concluded. With a new number on his back and renewed confidence following his recovery, Cedwyn Scott is poised to play a crucial role in Notts County’s quest for success this season. The Magpies’ supporters will be hoping that Scott can indeed rise to the occasion and fill the void left by his predecessor. We would love to see your thoughts on the Pride of Nottingham forum! Check out the Pride of Nottingham's dashboard page and join in with our content by ensuring you leave some comments. Read up on head coach Stuart Maynard's thoughts ahead of tomorrow's opening League Two clash of the 2024-25 League Two season against Tranmere Rovers. Head over to the article and be sure to leave your thoughts.

As Notts County prepare to kick off their 2024-25 League Two campaign with an away match against Tranmere Rovers, head coach Stuart Maynard exudes a sense of cautious optimism. Speaking in an interview ahead of the game, Maynard discussed the club’s preparations, the challenges ahead, and the squad's readiness for the season. Maynard acknowledged the excitement and pressure that comes with the final week of pre-season. "You always get to this final week, and it’s that reality that the season’s here," he remarked, noting how quickly the anticipation builds as the opening fixture approaches. "Pre-season feels long when it starts off, but it does come around very quickly, and yeah, look, we're as prepared as we can be at this stage." Reflecting on the pre-season campaign, Maynard highlighted the progress made by the team, particularly in terms of defensive solidity. "We've learned a lot from the way that we defend as a group, and it's something that we're focused on," he explained. The head coach was particularly pleased with the team’s defensive record, especially as the pre-season fixtures reached the 60-minute mark. "Once we started getting to the 60 minutes, we only conceded one goal in the first half of pre-season within games, which is a great stat for us," Maynard said, emphasising the importance of being hard to beat this season. The Notts County squad has seen significant changes over the summer, with several new signings aimed at bolstering the team's defensive ranks. Maynard pointed out that the allocation of squad numbers from 1 to 6, all to new signings, "tells a story in itself." He elaborated, saying, "We’ve recruited some defenders, and it’s something that we talked about at the back end of the season. We knew that we needed to make sure that we brought in competition for places in those areas." However, the head coach hinted that the transfer business might not be over just yet. With nine new arrivals so far, Maynard suggested that there could be further additions before the transfer window closes. "Things can happen very quickly in football, so look, there's always a possibility," he said. "We are trying to strengthen. We want to make sure that the squad's got good depth, which at the minute we feel that we're probably a couple short." One of the most notable signings for the upcoming season is Cedwyn Scott, who has been handed the coveted number nine shirt. Maynard expressed his confidence in Scott’s ability to make an impact. "I feel he's a goalscorer. He's a very clean finisher," said Maynard, adding that the player had shown sharpness during pre-season after an injury-plagued previous campaign. While Maynard stopped short of revealing his starting eleven for the opening match, he admitted that the coaching staff is "pretty close" to finalising their selection. The team has spent considerable time preparing for Tranmere Rovers, even scouting their opponents in a live match against Wigan. "We kind of know what to expect," Maynard commented, underscoring the importance of understanding the opposition. As Notts County embark on the new season, the head coach emphasised that success would depend not just on the starting eleven but on the entire squad. "If we want real success, it's about being able to look at your bench and then looking what's outside your squad to make sure that they can come and have an impact," Maynard noted. Maynard also provided an update on Matthew Palmer, a player who has been sidelined with injury since October. "He's been in full contact training for the last two weeks," Maynard revealed, adding that while Palmer is close to returning, the club is being cautious. "We just got to make sure that we stick to the timings... because he's going to be such a key player for us this season." For Maynard, the upcoming match against Tranmere represents more than just the start of a new season; it’s also a chance for a fresh start for the management team, who joined mid-season last year. "With a full pre-season, it's been massive for us as a management team now, and we're really looking forward to it," he concluded. As the season opener looms, Maynard’s cautious confidence reflects the quiet determination within the Notts County camp. The Magpies are ready to take flight, with their sights set firmly on a successful season ahead. We're discussing the upcoming game against Tranmere Rovers on our community forum. You can join in with the Pride of Nottingham match discussion here. Looking for something to wear to show off your love for Notts County? Why not have a look at the exclusive Pride of Nottingham t-shirts and help support the Pride of Nottingham's upkeep.

PARTNERSHIP | UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM

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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.

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