LesBradd4England

I’m sure I wasn’t alone among the Magpie faithful in having somewhat mixed emotions when Notts announced the loan signing of Jodi Jones. On one hand, our track record of players dropping divisions to don the famous black and white stripes has seldom been successful. On the other hand, I recall a player who tore us apart on the opening day of the 2017 season and also played against us in the more recent play-off defeat. When Jodi joined on loan, I was also conscious that we had not long signed John Bostock on an 18-month contract and were yet to see his emergence as a Notts player, which ultimately would lead to his imperious performance in the play-off final. So there was a tiny but genuine flicker of concern in my mind, wondering if we’d repeated the David Vaughan and Harry Arter fiascos? His signing too came at a time when we were flying in the league and Adam Chicksen was running riot down the left-hand side, scoring for fun. My primary thoughts were: do we really need him? Would fitness be an issue? Will he have the desire to tough it out in non-league football? Reasonable questions I feel when you look at his career to date. Like many players, his career path has not been a linear one. Obviously blessed with plenty of natural ability which allowed him to make such early progress in the game. A league debut at 17 and a subsequent transfer to Coventry at 19 on a four-year deal tells you that those in the know felt he had real potential. Seven years on from his debut, he has only made just over 100 league appearances in a career hampered by injury and a lengthy period out due to cruciate ligament damage. In fact, his 16 appearances on loan at Notts outweigh his total league appearances in the previous three seasons. Only those who’ve experienced lengthy lay-offs from professional sport know how difficult it is to overcome not just the physical but also the mental challenges required to return to the fray. Importantly, what is apparent in his interviews is his determination to overcome his past setbacks and resurrect his career not just for himself but also for his family, who he credits for their continuing support. With the ink dry on his contract and the benefit of seeing his loan appearances, now seems a good time to assess what Jodi brings to Meadow Lane. Firstly, I’m sure the harmonic atmosphere that pervades at Meadow Lane these days will have played some part in Jodi’s decision to sign for Notts. Ignoring the success on the field and the play-off win, from what I hear and read in the media, it appears a place where players enjoy their football, and I’m sure that cannot be underestimated, particularly when a player is looking to reignite his career. What we have seen to date is a player used sensibly by Luke Williams, allowing him to become comfortable and confident within the squad and our style of play. Rightly he’s had to wait for opportunities which he has embraced and taken when offered. He brings to the team real quality in terms of his ability when in possession. He has excellent close ball control which, along with his low centre of gravity and balance, he uses to unsettle defenders. Watching him drop his shoulders, jinking left and right puts me in mind of Stevie Carter for those old enough to remember. Allied to that though he doesn’t have the explosive pace of the likes of Nemane that close ball control and manipulation allows him to create space to deliver crosses. He knows it is not always necessary to beat a man to get crosses into the box; merely creating space for delivery is enough and something he excels at. Importantly I think there is a significant difference also in the quality of his crossing than we see most weeks. He doesn’t appear just to cross the ball; I sense he has greater awareness of other players’ movement and the type of delivery needed. Ultimately what I like most about him is his bravery; I say that not particularly with respect to his recovery from a lengthy injury lay-off. Don’t miss out on the chance to own a limited signed A4 print featuring Jodi Jones! Check out the Pride of Nottingham to get yours while stocks last. Exciting news for Jodi Jones fans! He’s been called up to the Malta team as they prepare to play the Three Lions. Read all about it and show your support for Jodi!