Joe Jones

Notts County's evening in the limelight ended up being as one-sided as Apollo Creed's bout with Ivan Drago in Rocky IV and yielded the same outcome as Swansea City ran out 8-1 winners in Tuesday night's FA Cup fourth-round replay at the Liberty Stadium. With the game being televised and Swansea being held to a 1-1 draw in the first game at Meadow Lane, there was real hope that the Magpies would be able to register a very plausible giant killing against a Premier League side who, despite enjoying an upturn in form, remain in a relegation dogfight. However, things did not go to plan as Carlos Carvalhal's charges cavalcaded into County's half from the off and tested Adam Collin through Tammy Abraham and Nathan Dyer before finding the breakthrough on 18 minutes. Luciano Narsingh, who struck the opener in the first encounter, was instrumental once again second time round as Kyle Naughton set him free down the right, reaching the byline before cutting back for Abraham to rifle past Collin at the near post. Before there was even time to properly write down and post the goal information on social media, the Swans doubled their lead, Abraham turning provider with a perfectly weighted through ball which found Dyer, who in turn sidefooted home. Goal number three came on the half-hour mark as Narsingh, once again deep inside the Notts half, cut the ball back for Dyer to sweep a first-time shot from just outside the area across Collin and into the far corner. For a couple of minutes, hope was restored among the Black and White Army when Noor Husin, who struck a wondergoal against Crewe at the weekend, was on hand to make the most of a failed Swansea clearance to curl a superb effort from 20 yards out beyond Kristoffer Nordfeldt and just inside the post. That hope was snuffed out just before the break, however, as Narsingh ran on to a diagonal pass from Kyle Bartley to break free on the right once again, before yet another weighted cutback found Abraham, who slotted past Collin for a 4-1 half-time lead. There was to be little in the way of damage limitation, however, as Swansea - who, it has to be said, are a completely different beast in recent weeks from the meek outfit of before, given they've beaten Arsenal and Liverpool under Carvalhal's watch - continued to slice through the County defence like a hot knife through butter. Save from Jon Stead's effort early in the second half, which Nordfeldt kept out, it was largely one-way traffic and four more goals would be scored by the Swans, through Naughton, who punished Collin's poor punched clearance; Wayne Routledge, who placed a low 18-yard shot into the corner; Tom Carroll, who rifled a superb effort into the top corner from range; and Daniel James dispatched number eight. Share your thoughts about this match report on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Hello and welcome to episode 40 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast, presented as always by Chris and JJ. In this week's episode we discuss Notts County's superb win over Crewe Alexandra as well as the record crowd at Meadow Lane that watched the game, going into detail about tactics, standout players, and the superb achievement of having the biggest crowd at the Lane this century. We also preview the Magpies' upcoming FA Cup fourth-round tie at Swansea City and determine whether the visitors will be able to spring a shock against the Premier League side, who have enjoyed a revival in recent weeks but remain in danger, and have also suffered the double blow of losing Leroy Fer and Wilfried Bony for the rest of the season. In addition we discuss County's deadline day signings, Brighton & Hove Albion Under-23 captain and defender Ben Hall and Derby County forward Mason Bennett, and discuss which one will have the bigger impact at the Lane. All this and more only in episode 40 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast! Remember - you can subscribe to our PONcast! You can do so by using iTunes for IOS devices, downloading any of the main podcast apps from the Google Play Store or even listen to the show using the TuneIn Radio app. As always, let us know your thoughts on this week’s PONcast on the forum or on the Facebook page, and once again, thank you for joining us! YOU PIES!! Share your thoughts about this PONcast episode on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Swansea City boss Carlos Carvalhal has stressed that, whilst his focus is on Premier League survival, he will still field a strong team against Notts County in their FA Cup fourth-round replay. The Magpies travel to the Liberty Stadium to take on the Swans tonight, who have enjoyed an upturn of form in the league in recent weeks. Swansea had just 13 points to their name from 20 games when the Portuguese was named as Paul Clement’s successor; they have taken 11 from six under his stewardship. However, they were unable to see off Notts at Meadow Lane in the first game, Jon Stead salvaging a 1-1 draw after Luciano Narsingh had put the top-flighters a goal up at the break. With a double injury blow coming in the form of Leroy Fer and Wilfried Bony sidelined until the end of the season, the former Sheffield Wednesday manager insisted he will not take any risks by using players with knocks. “We will try to win this game,” Carvalhal told the official Swans site. “We will not take any risks with any players who have some small pains or are risking injuries. “But we will play a strong team. As I said before Wolves (in round three) and before the first game against Notts County, our main competition is the Premier League. “If you gave me the choice of staying up or winning the cup, of course I would choose staying up. “But we are happy to play these cup games. We understand the prestige of this competition. We have to respect that and we also must respect Notts County. “It will not be an easy game, but we will fight to get to the next round.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Notts County coach Mark Crossley has revealed how Cardiff City have allowed the Magpies to use their training facilities ahead of tonight's FA Cup fourth-round meeting with Swansea City. The first game finished 1-1 at Meadow Lane which meant a replay at the Liberty Stadium for a place in the fifth round and a trip to Sheffield Wednesday. Cardiff are now hoping to see their bitter South Welsh rivals beaten at the second attempt and Crossley says the Bluebirds are paying back a favour. “Our chairman owns Ilkeston Town and Cardiff used their ground before their FA Cup tie at Mansfield," Crossley told reporters. “They were grateful and returned the favour for us this time. It was instant ‘yes’ from them - not a problem. “We’ve got three days down there and that’s the right way to prepare. We’ll be using some excellent training facilities once we get down there. “Everything between then and now is all about looking at Swansea’s strengths and weaknesses. “We’ll be able to do that at a hotel. If it gives you that extra one per cent chance of getting a result then so be it.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Notts County travel to the Liberty Stadium on Tuesday night for an FA Cup fourth-round replay against Swansea City with a fifth-round trip to Sheffield Wednesday up for grabs. How will the Magpies fare against the Swans? Can Kevin Nolan's charges build on their 1-1 draw at Meadow Lane or will Swansea's Premier League quality show? Here is Pride of Nottingham's pre-match preview. What happened in the first game Notts began brightly against the top-flight strugglers but their opponents soon stepped up a gear and had the hosts under the cosh before finding the net on the stroke of half time through Luciano Narsingh. The Magpies were much improved in the second half, however, as Jorge Grant spurned three gilt-edged chances in quick succession. Eventually, County's pressure was rewarded as veteran striker Jon Stead turned home on the hour to draw the Magpies level and ultimately clinch a replay at the Liberty Stadium. Current form The Swans have improved drastically in recent weeks under Carlos Carvalhal, with three wins and two draws from their last six Premier League games, including wins over Liverpool and Arsenal. Notts endured a tricky January form-wise in League Two but head into this game on the back of a 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra, with a return to 4-4-2 reaping dividends for the Magpies. Stats Swansea will be hosting Notts for the first time since a League Two clash in December 2004, with cult hero Lee Trundle netting a hat-trick in a 4-0 win for the hosts. The Swans have lost three of their last five FA Cup replays in which they have been the higher ranked side, although they did beat Wolves in the last round, 2-1 in a third-round replay. Notts County have only progressed from one of their last five FA Cup replays, last winning in a replay against Premier League opposition in February 2010, 2-0 v Wigan. Swansea have won three games in a row at the Liberty Stadium in all competitions for the first time since their final three Premier League home games of 2016-17 - they last won four in a row at home in May 2016. Team news Striker Wilfried Bony and midfielder Leroy Fer have been ruled out for the rest of the season after picking up long-term injuries. On-loan midfielder Renato Sanches is also out for a month with a hamstring injury. Leon Britton and Angel Rangel are also unavailable for Tuesday night's clash, while Andre Ayew and Andy King are cup-tied. Notts have no new injury concerns ahead of the fourth-round replay, although goalkeeper Ross Fitzsimons remains suspended. Brighton & Hove Albion loanee Ben Hall is ineligible and fellow deadline day loan signing Mason Bennett is cup-tied, having played for Derby County. Share your thoughts about this preview on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Kevin Nolan has expressed his delight with Notts County's big 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra in terms of carrying the momentum forward into Tuesday night's FA Cup fourth-round replay at Swansea City. The Magpies drew 1-1 with the Swans in the first game to secure a replay at the Liberty Stadium, with a fifth-round meeting at Sheffield Wednesday up for grabs. County's League Two form in January was wobbly but the team got back to winning ways against the Railwaymen in front of a packed Meadow Lane on Saturday. The result kept the club in the division's automatic promotion places and, on the back of the win, Nolan is eager for the team to get back out onto the pitch promptly. “I am really looking forward to it,” he told the Nottingham Post. "When you win games you just want to be back out on the pitch. “There’s a lot of work to be done from now until Tuesday, but we will enjoy this result for a bit. “I know Swansea had another good result at the weekend so it will be a tough one, but we go there full of confidence.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Kevin Nolan is hoping that some of the people who made the most of the £2 ticket offer for Notts County against Crewe Alexandra will "have seen enough to come back". Saturday's League Two game at Meadow Lane saw ticket prices slashed as part of Alan Hardy's one-year anniversary festivities and as a result, a huge crowd of 17,274 turned out at the ground. Those in attendance were treated to a show of grit, perseverance and class as the Magpies came from a goal down to win 4-1 and Nolan is hoping that the great result will make those who haven't been to the Lane much think about attending more games. "I thought the crowd were fantastic (on Saturday) and it's a credit to what Alan has done because I don't think we'd have got over 17,000 through the gates this time last year if we had offered £2 a ticket," he told the Nottingham Post. "That shows how far we have come in a year and hopefully the fans have seen enough to come back. The experience will be in the back of their minds that Meadow Lane is a good place to come, where you get looked after. "They got a great spectacle with some fantastic goals, play and finishing. It makes people go home with a big smile on their face and I will certainly be one of those." Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Notts County came from a goal down to record a superb 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra in Saturday's League Two encounter at a packed Meadow Lane. In front of a bumper crowd of more than 17,000 thanks to Alan Hardy's "2 for Crewe" offer, the Magpies fell behind to Shaun Miller's goal on the rebound. However, Notts were level seven minutes later when Noor Husin rifled home a stunning Roy of the Rovers-esque drive from all of 25 yards out. Elliott Hewitt then put the hosts ahead just before half time before adding a second on the hour in what was a man-of-the-match performance from the versatile player. With full-time approaching, Derby County loanee Mason Bennett scored on his debut to cap off a memorable win for the Magpies. Pride of Nottingham was at Meadow Lane for the occasion and interviewed a number of fans about several key topics - find out what the Black & White Army had to say in this week's Meet the Fans! Share your thoughts about this week's Meet the Fans on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Notts County came from a goal down to record a superb 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra in Saturday's League Two encounter at a packed Meadow Lane. In front of a bumper crowd of more than 17,000 thanks to Alan Hardy's "2 for Crewe" offer, the Magpies fell behind to Shaun Miller's goal on the rebound. However, Notts were level seven minutes later when Noor Husin rifled home in a stunning drive from all of 25 yards out. Elliott Hewitt put the hosts ahead just before half time before adding a second on the hour, before Derby County loanee Mason Bennett scored on his debut to cap off a memorable win. Pride of Nottingham has compiled some of the key post-match reaction from Notts boss Kevin Nolan, the players, and the fans. Kevin Nolan "I enjoyed it. I thought the lads were fantastic and got what they deserved. It could have been more than four - some of the chances we created and the play at times was magnificent. "I was a bit upset with the way we conceded the goal, and at that point I was thinking 'Typical us!' because we had started well, but that already seems like a distant memory. "The goals showed what the team possesses. There was individual brilliance as well as team goals. At times it was a real joy to watch." Mason Bennett “I was delighted to get underway and it was a great result. “The lads dug in after going one down early on and showed great character to react. It was nice to get the three points on the board. “It was a brilliant atmosphere and the chairman has done brilliantly to knock the price of the tickets down. “It was a great turnout and the lads enjoyed it. They got the result the fans deserved. “I was delighted to get on with 30 minutes to go and I got my goal so I was very pleased.” Players on social media The Black and White Army Northants Pie: It was a not bad attacking performance, likewise a not bad defensive peformance, being critical we need to release Jorge Grant earlier, countless times he had made brilliant runs on the left wing and every time the ball seemed to fall to either Hewitt or Hunt, neither of whom have the awareness to see such a pass. Hewitts energy is faultless, his positional sense though needs to be better, especially when defending, but as a team I didn't think we defended that well, mainly caused by this lack of awareness as other players were being dragged nto areas they shouldn't have been in. We miss Tootle as both he & Jones push the opposing team backwards but with only Jones doing this Crewe's left winger was cheating which allowed them an out ball most of the time. Our ball watching at times is criminal and you could see Crewe trying to expose this whenever they had a chance. Having said that going forward, Ameobi was class, his first touch is brilliant and the referee failed to spot a lot of fouls commited on him yesterday. Stead ran his nuts off as always, like with Ameobi the Crewe defenders were all over him like a rash, looked better once Bennett came on and took over the running. Alessandra will always give you an out ball but we miss Hawkridge in that position. Husin was class, always has time and has the ability to find time, a lone undermined skill that the best always posses. Grant got far more into the game once Bennet came on as he had someone on the same wavelength as him and these both helped Husin also as he was understanding the runs they made. If we could clear up the defensive mistakes then we'd beat any team we come up against in my opinion. Liampie: Good all round performance today, i was well impressed. The second half saw notts really get going and we played some good stuff. i think the formation really allowed us to play comfortably, i know we started awfully but we grew in confidence after equalising. Anti-Red: First complete team performance that I have seen for a very long time. The start had me dreading what might become but I thought Notts responded how they should and as a result quickly took back control of the game. Liampie: i thought the midfield just over ran crewe yesterday, it was good to see hewitt, husin and grant all linking up well. Chris: The early goal for Crewe seemed to help us more than it did them. It was very poor defending by Duffy, I had no idea what he was thinking and it's those decisions by him which usually cost us the most. He managed to settle down, yet I do feel his shaky start did impact us for a bit. The midfield ran the show, they urged forward and created chances after chance. It wasn't a case yesterday of 'will we score' it was 'when will we score'. Going into the lead before half time was massive too, it meant we could come out and play our usual passing game. Second half we looked class, the link-up play especially! The addition of Bennett had me thinking we could score even more, as Alessandra seemed to be left unmarked after and he really did deserve a goal. That said, fans now know why he's been pushed onto the wing after the amount of chances he had to score. I'm very impressed! Upthepies: Has Kevin been working on shooting in training or something? All the goals ended up being taken very well. The roar when we equalized was matched by Notts going 2-1 up. Share your thoughts about this post-match reaction piece on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Notts County put in one of their best performances of the season in front of the biggest Meadow Lane crowd of the 21st century in Saturday's 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra. The Magpies endured a wobbly start as Shaun Miller drilled home on the rebound after just eight minutes for the breakthrough. However, Noor Husin struck back on the quarter-hour mark with a ferocious long-range effort before Elliott Hewitt put the hosts ahead just before half time. Hewitt then got his second of the game and County's third by finishing off a great team move on the hour mark and Derby County loanee Mason Bennett added the cherry on top late on. Relive the key moments of the superb win with the official Notts match highlights, which we've shared on Pride of Nottingham for you. Share your thoughts about the game on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Kevin Nolan says Notts County "got what they deserved" as they recorded a stunning 4-1 victory over Crewe Alexandra at Meadow Lane on Saturday. The Magpies were watched by upwards of 17,000 people at the ground and, even though they conceded after just eight minutes, rallied round for a comprehensive win. Shaun Miller opened the scoring after a defensive hiccup, but Noor Husin equalised with a Roy of the Rovers-style wondergoal on the quarter-hour mark. Elliott Hewitt then grabbed a brace and Derby County loanee Mason Bennett added a fourth for an all-round fantastic day for the club. "I enjoyed it," Nolan told the official Notts site. "I thought the lads were fantastic and got what they deserved. It could have been more than four - some of the chances we created and the play at times was magnificent. "I was a bit upset with the way we conceded the goal, and at that point I was thinking 'Typical us!' because we had started well, but that already seems like a distant memory. "The goals showed what the team possesses. There was individual brilliance as well as team goals. At times it was a real joy to watch. "Richard Thomas [assistant manager] works tirelessly with them about being patient in those areas and finding the quality, so the third goal has come straight off the training ground. It doesn't happen by accident. "It was nice for Mason to come on and give us an injection of pace and something different to what we already have. I'm delighted that he got a goal on his debut." Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Notts County put in one of their best performances of the season in front of the biggest Meadow Lane crowd of the 21st century in Saturday's 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra. The Magpies charged just £2 for tickets for this League Two fixture, which went on to sell out on Friday afternoon, as part of Alan Hardy's one-year anniversary celebrations. From multi-decade season ticket holders to first-time attendees, the bumper crowd was rewarded with a great display against the Railwaymen after overcoming a wobbly start. On eight minutes, a mistake in the County defence was seized upon by Jordan Bowery who saw his shot parried by keeper Adam Collin into the path of Shaun Miller, who made no mistake from close range. However, Notts drew level on 15 minutes as Noor Husin, whose performance against Swansea City was lauded by many fans, pounced on a miscued clearance before taking a touch and rifling a superb effort into the back of the net from about 25 yards out. Four minutes before the end of the first half the hosts went ahead as Crewe failed to clear their lines as a ball was delivered first from the left, then sent back across goal by Stead, which Elliott Hewitt scuffed into the net by driving into the ground and over Ben Garratt. Goal number three for the Pies came on the hour mark, a real team effort which saw the ball played into Stead and his lay-off found the incoming Hewitt, who took it in his stride before smashing it past Garratt for his second of the afternoon. By this point the vast majority of the 17,274-strong crowd (basically everyone bar the travelling Alex fans) were loving what they were seeing and there was time for a cherry on top in the 90th minute. Aubstitute Mason Bennett, debuting for his loan club, was on hand to apply the finish from close range after Lewis Alessandra's initial effort was saved by Garratt to make it a virtually perfect afternoon for the Black and White Army. Share your thoughts about this match report on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Alan Hardy has thanked the people of Nottingham for their support since the Notts County takeover was completed last January and is looking forward to a bumper crowd in today's anniversary League Two game with Crewe Alexandra. The Magpies have been on an upward trajectory over the last 12 months, going from relegation scrappers to promotion chasers as well as still having a chance of reaching the fifth round of the FA Cup. The January transfer window was also fruitful as three midfielders, one centre-back and one forward came in, but Hardy is eager to concentrate on the football, beginning with today. "I'm very happy with the business we have done over the last month and I think Mason and Ben will be excellent additions to the squad moving forward," Hardy wrote in his Nottingham Post column. "Now all the transfer business has been completed until the summer, we can concentrate on the football. "As you may have read, for this weekend's game against Crewe we are expecting an incredible crowd - the biggest since Tottenham came to the Lane in 1994. "Obviously, reducing ticket prices to £2 has been the catalyst but I wanted to say 'thank you' to the people of Nottingham for their support since I bought the club just over a year ago. "I have been overwhelmed by the number of well-wishes, not only from Notts fans but the wider Nottingham public. "I hope it will be a truly spectacular anniversary party! Come on you Pies!" Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Head to head Notts County’s head-to-head history with Crewe Alexandra dates back to September 1893, when the Magpies faced the Railwaymen at the Alexandra Recreation Ground. The result was a 2-0 win for Notts. After several further meetings in the late 1890s, the fixture would experience a hiatus of 63 years; between 1896 and 1959, the two teams didn't play each other. Notts and Crewe have played 44 times in competitive games, and we have the upper hand with 21 wins to 14 defeats, while 9 draws have taken place. The Alex have been on the receiving end of several thumpings at the hands of the Magpies – in 1894, we beat them 9-1 and 5-1, in 1896 we won 6-0, in 1959 we recorded a 4-1 victory and 1970 brought a 5-1 win. In 2013, a 4-0 scoreline at Meadow Lane brought some light to a gloomy first half of the campaign. Notts are unbeaten in their last six home league games against Crewe (three wins and three draws), finding the net at least once in all six matches (12 goals), since a 0-1 defeat in March 1997. Crewe are unbeaten in their last three League Two clashes against the Magpies (one win and two draws), last going four without a defeat against them in all competitions in November 1966 (five games). Stats After a run of just one defeat in 23 league games at home, The Magpies have now lost back to back league matches on home soil for the first time since December 2016 (a run of 5). The Railwaymen have lost each of their last three away games in League Two, and have lost 14 of their last 17 league games on the road (W3) in a run stretching back to April 2017. Veteran forward Jon Stead has bagged four of Notts County's last five league goals, as well as netting their last two FA Cup goals, including their equaliser against Premier League side Swansea City last time out. Crewe Alexandra have lost a league-high 20 points from winning positions in League Two so far this season, whilst also claiming a league-low one point from losing positions in the competition this campaign. History The origins of the “Alexandra” moniker in the club name aren’t fully known. Whether they took the name from a hotel, patronised by those connected with the railway works and where they held their meetings, or whether it was after Princess Alexandra of Denmark, who married Queen Victoria’s eldest son, later King Edward VII, is open to speculation. In 2013, the club won its first-ever major silverware after beating Southend United 2-0 in the Johnstones Paint Trophy final at Wembley. Crewe are known as the Railwaymen because of the town’s links to the British train network. Crewe station was completed in 1837 and is one of the most historic railway stations in the world. Nowadays, as well as serving the town of Crewe that has grown near it, it still operates as a major junction on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). It also serves as a major station on the WCML and as a major rail gateway for the North West. Team news Notts have forward Mason Bennett and defender Ben Hall to call upon, the pair having joined the club on loan from Derby County and Brighton respectively on transfer deadline day. Midfielder Matty Virtue is available once more after serving a one-game ban but goalkeeper Ross Fitzsimons remains sidelined for another two matches for his straight red against Crawley. Crewe could hand a debut to defender Jamie Sterry, who joined on loan from Newcastle on deadline day. David Artell's defensive options have however taken a hit as Zoumana Bakayogo misses out through suspension. Fellow defender Michael Raynes faces a fitness test, as does goalkeeper Dave Richards after he was forced off in the Swindon loss with a calf problem. Share your thoughts about this Stat Attack preview on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Kevin Nolan has admitted that transfer deadline day is not enjoyable for him as a manager but is happy that he can now concentrate on Notts County's next fixture. The final day of the January window was hectic for the Magpies, with Derby County forward Mason Bennett's loan arrival not formally announced to the anxious fanbase until 11:30pm. In the end it proved a fruitful month of business for Notts, with Ryan Yates's recall offset by the arrival of three midfielders, plus a centre-back and the aforementioned striker helping to bolster the ranks. Up next for the club is a League Two home game with Crewe Alexandra, which is predicted to bring a record crowd due to Alan Hardy's "2 for Crewe" offer. “I don’t really enjoy the last day of the window,” Nolan told the Nottingham Post. “It’s too much because a lot of it gets in the way of what we are trying to do on a day-to-day basis leading up to the game. “I’ve probably spoken more about players who are not here, than the players who are over the last month. “It’s not for me, but it’s only my second proper window. I must admit I am not a big fan of it now I am sat in the manager’s chair, whereas when you are a player it was quite enjoyable watching it. “I think a lot of managers are of the same opinion. When you pick the phone up and speak to them ‘‘it’s how are you?’ and the response is ‘mad busy trying to do this deal or that one’. “But it’s part and parcel of the job and I will learn how to get better at it. I’ve got now my squad and it’s settled. We can now concentrate on the game ahead.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Mason Bennett has outlined his intention to help Notts County achieve promotion from League Two and get himself a winner's medal. The 21-year-old completed a loan move from Derby County to Meadow Lane on Wednesday night, the switch officially confirmed by the Magpies after the 11pm transfer window deadline. Bennett is expected to go straight into the Notts squad for Saturday's home game with Crewe Alexandra as the hosts seek to remain in the top three. "I'm delighted to get the move done because it's been going on for a couple of weeks now,” Bennett told the Nottingham Post. "I made sure I got up early so that I was ready if I received a call in the morning so there was a lot of waiting around, but I'm anxious to get going and delighted to be here. "It's a great club and a massive club which is going in the right direction and I want to help it push in to League One. “The manager is great and he's as delighted to have me here as I am to be here. I want to make a great impact for the team and help them push on to win promotion. “It's a great challenge for me. I've been in the Championship and League One and now I want to come down to League Two and try to get a medal here too. “I want to help the team fight for promotion. That is the main goal and that is why I am here. There are a lot of games to play so if I can get a couple of goals then that will be a huge plus.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Kevin Nolan has declared himself pleased with Notts County's business in the January transfer window. The Magpies bolstered their ranks with the acquisitions of Matty Virtue, Noor Husin, Ben Hall and Mason Bennett, while Liam Noble could finally be registered after joining late last year. In adding a centre-back and a forward, two areas which were in need of strengthening have now been duly reinforced, while Ryan Yates's untimely recall is now no longer a worry with three new midfielders able to turn out for Notts. "I'm delighted with the business we have done. A lot of it was done early and those lads have had a couple of weeks to settle in," Nolan told the official Notts site. "I feel we have come out of the window with a stronger squad because we have brought in a lot of youth to blend with the OAP squad, as people keep calling us! "To get the two lads we wanted on the final day, which went right to the wire, was great. We have different types of players in each position, which is going to give me a selection headache." Speaking about deadline day signing Hall, Nolan said: "We spoke to a lot of people who have worked with Ben and we're delighted to get him. He has had good experience in Scotland with Motherwell and he is a confident lad. We want him to push Duffy and Brisley to new heights." Bennett, meanwhile, was formally announced half an hour after the window closed, and the gaffer added: "Mason has turned down good opportunities to go elsewhere because we are the club he wanted to move forward with. I'm delighted he has chosen us and I hope we can progress his career. "You only have to look at him to see he's an athlete but we're not putting any extra pressure on him, we need to let him get on with his football and that is the most important thing. "He has got every attribute to be a top player with the way he glides past people and his running in behind and we have to try and nurture that and get it out of him. He's a real handful because of his pace but he is also very clever on the ball. He will bring a lot and we are excited to be working with him." Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

For the second year in a row, Notts County have been busy in the final days of the transfer window. Last year, the Magpies exited the transfer embargo with just a few days left to go and were able to bring in several players, many of whom were loanees (including Jorge Grant - how did that one work out again?) plus Mark Yeates joining permanently. This time round, the whole Ryan Yates debacle has largely been put behind us with the acquisition of Noor Husin, who was superb against Swansea City and has been tipped by Alan Hardy to improve as he gets more accustomed to the league to the point that Yates' absence will no longer be felt. Matty Virtue has also been brought in on loan from Liverpool and although he may need a little more acclimatising to the rigours of first-team football, he is also a very highly rated player - you'd need to be to captain the Under-23s team. Oh, and of course Liam Noble, although signed last year, was registered in January upon the opening of the transfer window. Seems like an age away now following all that happened since. This month the wear and tear from the overload of fixtures has shown in the defence with Matt Tootle, Richard Duffy and Shaun Brisley missing the odd game, so a reinforcement at the back was a necessity. Hardy promised and he delivered, with Ben Hall joining from Brighton & Hove Albion on loan. Another captain of his club's Under-23s team, Hall got a fair bit of first-team action - 18 games, according to Transfermarkt - at previous club Motherwell but hasn't been used by Chris Hughton as of yet, so like Virtue, he may need a little acclimatising to senior football. And then came the long, nervous wait for a forward to bolster the ageing and war-weary attacking ranks, which ticked past 11pm and left many fans increasingly nervous. But once again, the signing was made, as Mason Bennett arrived for a temporary stay at Meadow Lane until the end of the season. Bennett is very highly rated by the Rams fanbase, many fans saying he's a superb player that has just been unlucky with injuries. But the fact he's featured this season in the Championship, the EFL Cup and even the FA Cup, against Manchester United, means he is clearly highly rated by Gary Rowett. On the whole I am satisfied with the month's transfer dealings. Let's face it, we were never going to sign a key player from another lower-league team with the season still in full swing, but the players that have been brought in are all young up-and-coming prospects who will learn from County's elder statesmen and in turn give them a little respite from time to time - after all, we're likely to clock up more than 50 games this season in all competitions. The FA Cup run has been superb but the bread and butter of the league has been disappointing in January, so fingers crossed the signings will not only slot in seamlessly and give the team a bit more quality, but also ensuring that the older players in the team can be used more sparingly and as a result will show more of their own quality when they do play. Share your thoughts about this feature article on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

The first month of 2018 is now out of the way (it seemed to last forever didn't it? -JJ) and it's been a pretty topsy-turvy January as far as Notts County are confirmed. An amazing run in the FA Cup tempered by a poor showing in League Two, while Ryan Yates's premature departure was followed up by not one but two midfielders arriving at Meadow Lane. And that's before we talk about the long, anxious wait for a striker on transfer deadline day! In this article, Pride of Nottingham recaps all the major news stories from January 2018. January 1 Notts County claimed their second win in three League Two games after Jon Stead scored a late penalty to secure a 1-0 victory over Port Vale on New Year's Day. January 4 Liam Noble stressed that his "head is in the right place now" as he prepared to begin his second spell at Notts County, being registered at the opening of the January window. January 6 Notts County put in a superb performance to beat Brentford 1-0 in the fourth round of the FA Cup at Griffin Park. January 9 Notts were drawn against either Swansea City or Wolverhampton Wanderers at Meadow Lane in round four of the FA Cup. Haydn Hollis left Meadow Lane to join Forest Green Rovers. January 10 Nottingham Forest recalled midfielder Ryan Yates, going on to send him on loan to Scunthorpe United. January 11 As a replacement, Matty Virtue was loaned from Liverpool. January 12 And Noor Husin then followed suit, joining Notts permanently from Crystal Palace. January 13 Notts left Sincil Bank with a point after Jorge Grant struck the equaliser in a 2-2 draw with Lincoln City. January 15 Notts County confirmed that the 2017/18 early bird season ticket price will be frozen for those who renew next season. January 16 Notts were given confirmation by Nottingham Forest that Jorge Grant will be able to stay on loan at Meadow Lane for the remainder of the season. January 20 Alan Hardy revealed that Notts County are quarter of a million pounds inside their budget at present. Notts lost their superb unbeaten home record in League Two after fellow promotion chasers Exeter City claimed a 2-1 win at Meadow Lane. January 23 Notts suffered a second League Two home defeat in the space of three days as Crawley Town emerged 2-1 winners at Meadow Lane on Tuesday night. January 26 Notts announced the departure of Curtis Thompson on loan to Wycombe Wanderers until the end of the season. January 27 Notts held Premier League side Swansea City to a 1-1 draw in Saturday's FA Cup fourth-round encounter at Meadow Lane. January 29 The winner of Notts v Swansea was drawn to face Sheffield Wednesday away in round five of the FA Cup. January 31 Notts recruited Brighton & Hove Albion defender Ben Hall and Derby County forward Mason Bennett on loan on transfer deadline day. Share your thoughts about this news recap on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Notts County have announced the loan signing of Derby County forward Mason Bennett until the end of the season. The 21-year-old, who made his first-team debut for the Rams at the age of 15 to become the club's youngest-ever player, was snapped up late on transfer deadline day. Here is some information about the player's identity, career, achievements and style of play. Full name: Mason Kane Bennett Date of birth: 15 July 1996 Place of birth: Shirebrook Age: 21 Height: 1.78m (5'10") Nationality: English, Barbadian Position: Striker/Secondary Striker, can also play on both wings Preferred foot: Unknown Last club: Derby County (parent club) Came through the ranks at: Derby Other clubs he has played for: Chesterfield, Bradford City, Burton Albion (loans) Thoughts on player: "We see Mason as playing in the front three positions, but it would be nice to have a little look at him down the middle for a period of time because I think that is probably what will be his best position." - Gary Rowett, Derby manager Share your thoughts about this factfile on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Notts County have announced the loan signing of Derby County forward Mason Bennett until the end of the season. The 21-year-old, who made his first-team debut for the Rams at the age of 15 to become the club's youngest-ever player, was snapped up late on transfer deadline day. Bennett has played six times for the Derby's team this season, including the recent FA Cup third-round defeat at Manchester United. However, his progress this season at Pride Park has been hindered by injury, his first start under Gary Rowett against Brentford in September ending in ligament damage. A forward who can also operate out wide, Bennett spent time with Chesterfield during their League Two title-winning season in 2013-14 and at Burton Albion in 2014-15, when they also won promotion. "I'm delighted to get it over the line because it's been going on for a couple of weeks now," Bennett told the official Notts site. "It went down to the last day and fortunately we have got it done. "This is a great club and a massive club which is going in the right direction and I want to help it push into League One. "The manager knows what I can do on and off the ball. He wants me to come in and give the team something a bit different to what they have already. I'm here to gain more experience and make an impact." Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Hello and welcome to episode 39 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast, presented as always by your favourite hosts Chris and JJ. In this week's episode we discuss Notts County's 1-1 draw against Swansea City in the FA Cup fourth round and preview the replay at the Liberty Stadium - can the Magpies pull off a mighty upset against the resurgent Premier League side, which has managed to beat Liverpool and Arsenal in recent weeks? We also talk about the fifth-round draw, which will pit the winner of the tie against Championship side Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough - with the Owls being below Brentford in the league, is it an opportunity ripe for the taking in beating Swansea and potentially overcoming Wednesday to make it into the quarter-finals? In addition we discuss the Magpies' transfer window business ahead of transfer deadline day and rate whether the club has done well in terms of incomings and outgoings. We touch upon the departure of Ryan Yates and also discuss the addition of midfielders Noor Husin and Matty Virtue. All this and more in episode 39 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast! Remember - you can subscribe to our PONcast! You can do so by using iTunes for IOS devices, downloading any of the main podcast apps from the Google Play Store or even listen to the show using the TuneIn Radio app. As always, let us know your thoughts on this week’s PONcast on the forum or on the Facebook page, and once again, thank you for joining us! YOU PIES!! Share your thoughts about this PONcast episode on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Notts County have confirmed the acquisition of Brighton & Hove Albion defender Ben Hall on a loan deal until the end of the season. Here is some information about the player's identity, career, achievements and style of play. Full name: Ben Hall Date of birth: 16 January 1997 Place of birth: Enniskillen Age: 21 Height: 5'10" Nationality: Northern Irish Position: Defence - Centre-back Preferred foot: Unknown Last club: Brighton & Hove Albion (parent club) Came through the ranks at: Dungannon Swifts Other clubs he has played for: Motherwell Achievements: Brighton Under-23s captain Thoughts on player: “This is a great opportunity for Ben to gain experience in a first-team environment as Notts County challenge at the top end of the league table. He’s been a regular in the heart of defence so far this season and his form has rightly attracted interest from outside the club. It’s a fresh and exciting challenge for Ben and we wish him the best for the remainder of the season.” - Simon Rusk, Brighton development coach "Ben is an excellent young prospect. His challenge is not only to progress but to be ready to make that step up into the first-team squad." - Chris Hughton, Brighton manager Share your thoughts about this factfile on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

Notts County have announced the loan signing of Brighton & Hove Albion defender Ben Hall on a season-long loan. The 21-year-old Northern Irishman began his career at Dungannon Swifts before joining Motherwell in 2013. A central defender by trade, Hall made his first-team debut for the Scottish side in December 2015, and scored in a 2-0 win over St Johnstone later that month. Hall then joined the Seagulls from Motherwell for an undisclosed fee in June 2016, a move which riled then manager Mark McGhee. "I am sure he will do well there eventually. They have got themselves a bargain," he said at the time. "Ben is an excellent young prospect," Seagulls boss Chris Hughton told the club website upon signing for the South Coast club. "His challenge is not only to progress but to be ready to make that step up into the first-team squad." Speaking about the loan move, Brighton development coach Simon rusk said: “This is a great opportunity for Ben to gain experience in a first-team environment as Notts County challenge at the top end of the league table. "He’s been a regular in the heart of defence so far this season and his form has rightly attracted interest from outside the club. "It’s a fresh and exciting challenge for Ben and we wish him the best for the remainder of the season.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.