TheSkipper

Jodi Jones extending his contract with Notts County is a massive win, not only for the club but also for the fans. Jones has become such an integral part of the team, and his decision to commit to staying at Meadow Lane until 2027 sends a clear message. Both the player and the club are aiming high for the future. What strikes me most about Jones is his passion for Notts County. You don’t often see players who speak so openly about how much a club means to them. When Jones said he was "buzzing" after getting the deal over the line, you could feel his excitement. This is a player who has rediscovered his love for football thanks to Notts, and it's obvious why he chose to stay. It’s not just about the contract; it’s about the club giving him a place where he feels at home. Jones’ bond with the fans has also been huge. He’s openly said how much their support lifts him, and anyone who’s been to Meadow Lane can see how he feeds off the crowd. When the fans sing his name, you can tell it gives him that extra spark. It’s more than just football for him, it’s about being part of a community, and that’s what makes his decision to stay such a big deal for the club. Jones isn’t just a favourite at Notts County. He’s earned the respect of the wider football community too. Winning both the PFA and EFL Player of the Year awards last season shows the level he is playing at. Yet, what’s refreshing is how humble he remains. He’s quick to give credit to his teammates, the manager, and the supporters, but you can see that his focus is on one thing – promotion. That’s what drives him, and it’s clear that he’s determined to help the club achieve it. What I admire about Jones is his honesty. He’s spoken about the pressure he felt when he first joined the club, knowing that Notts County took a chance on him. But that pressure only seemed to push him to perform better. Now, with his new contract in place, he’s ready to prove himself all over again. He’s already started this season brightly, with important assists and goals, and his nomination for August’s Player of the Month shows he’s not content to rest on last season’s success. One thing that stands out is how unselfish Jones is on the pitch. When asked whether he prefers scoring or setting up goals, he immediately said assists. That’s rare in today’s game, where many players are focused on their own stats. But Jones seems to get just as much joy from helping his teammates succeed. It’s that team-first mentality that makes him such a valuable part of the squad. There’s been a lot of discussion about his best position, but Jones himself has made it clear that he feels most comfortable on the right. That’s where his game is more natural, and it’s where he can be at his most effective. Now, under Stuart Maynard, who’s had a full pre-season with him, Jones is thriving, and it’s clear to see the impact that’s having on the pitch. In my opinion, this contract extension doesn’t just keep a top player at the club – it’s a statement of intent from Notts County. Jones has the passion, the skill, and the hunger to help lead this team to promotion, and for the fans, it’s a sign that the club is heading in the right direction. It’s not just about this season, it’s about building something that will last, and with Jones on board, there’s every reason to believe they’re well on their way. Catch up on all the action and fan comments from Notts County’s thrilling win over Bromley in our latest match report! Read more on Pride of Nottingham. We’re already 67 replies in on Pride of Nottingham's Match Discussion! Share your thoughts on Notts County’s impressive 4-2 comeback at Hayes Lane!

Notts County had a busy summer transfer window, bringing in several new players to further strengthen an already strong squad. As the season starts, it's clear that these acquisitions have been part of a well-thought-out strategy, not just to fill gaps but to build a team capable of meeting the demands of League Two. Integrating the new signings into the existing 3-4-2-1 formation has been a smooth process, with early performances on the pitch showing promise. Alex Bass, signed from Sunderland, has quickly established himself as a commanding presence in goal. His debut against Tranmere Rovers demonstrated his ability to control the penalty area confidently, making key saves that helped secure a clean sheet. This performance instantly won him the approval of the Magpie supporters. Since then, only a well-executed corner from Fleetwood and a rocket of a shot by Swindon Town’s Gavin Kilkenny have beaten him, both of which were almost impossible to stop. Bass’s consistency and distribution skills have already proven him to be an upgrade in goal. His long kicks, turning defence into attack, have added a new dimension to Notts County’s play. The defensive line has also seen significant improvement, with new additions bringing depth and quality. Rod McDonald, although yet to feature this season, impressed during pre-season and looks to be a solid addition once he can return to action. Jacob Bedeau, arriving on a free transfer after leaving Morecambe, has added physicality and aerial strength to the three-man defence. His partnership with Matty Platt, another summer signing from Bradford City, is already taking shape. Platt’s versatility and intelligence with the ball have given the team tactical flexibility, enabling them to adjust during matches without compromising defensive solidity. This new-look defence, with young Lewis Macari now established as the right centre-back, has brought a newfound resilience to the side. Bedeau and Platt, in particular, have formed a solid understanding that has brought calmness to a backline that struggled with consistency last season. Their composure, evident in both their positioning and decision-making, also influences those around them. Macari, benefiting from the experienced players beside him, continues to grow in confidence. With these defensive reinforcements, players like Jodi Jones, a more attack-focused wing-back, can push forward without worrying about leaving the defence exposed. In midfield, the club finds itself in an enviable position. Last season, fans dreamed of seeing Matty Palmer and Scott Robertson play together in midfield, particularly after Palmer's return from a long injury. While this duo promises much, the arrival of new signings means there’s no need to rush Palmer back into the fold. Curtis Edwards, who joined from Woking, has already impressed with his work rate and precise passing, while Jack Hinchy, from Brighton, adds a level of technical ability that can unlock defences. The arrival of George Abbott also raises questions about the best midfield partnership going forward, as he could rival Robertson for his work rate. This depth in midfield ensures the club has options to rotate, keeping players fresh throughout the season. Conor Grant, signed from MK Dons, brings an extra creative spark, especially in advanced positions. His ability to link play between midfield and attack ensures smooth transitions from defence to attack, giving Notts County fluidity in their play. Meanwhile, Jevani Brown’s loan from Bristol Rovers adds unpredictability and flair to the attack. Brown’s versatility, primarily as an attacking midfielder, allows him to support the lone striker or shift into central roles when required, unsettling opposition defences and offering Notts County tactical flexibility. What stands out most about this new-look squad is the balance and flexibility the new signings have provided. Under the Reedtz brothers’ ownership, recruitment has reached new heights at Meadow Lane, with the board backing Stuart Maynard’s vision for the club. These signings are not just about filling gaps, they represent an evolution of the squad, shaping it into a side capable of adapting to the challenges of League Two while staying true to the club’s footballing principles. The emphasis on versatility, especially in players like Matty Platt and George Abbott, ensures that Notts County can cope with injuries, suspensions, and tactical adjustments with ease. For the fans, the new signings represent renewed hope and ambition. There’s a buzz around Meadow Lane that hasn’t been felt in years. Supporters who have experienced the club’s ups and downs can sense that this season could be different. The defensive frailties that plagued the team last year appear to be a thing of the past, with a real sense of solidity at the back. The KOP feels confident, knowing that the team can withstand pressure and launch attacks with ease. The experienced players are also thriving alongside the new arrivals. Dan Crowley, the creative force in midfield, has found even more freedom, dictating play with greater fluidity. At the back, seasoned players like Robbie Cundy have blended well with the younger, hungry players around them. This mix of youth and experience, tradition and innovation, is a reflection of what Notts County has always stood for. With each match, it becomes more evident that the club is moving in the right direction. The tactical flexibility, defensive solidity, and attacking flair are all coming together, creating optimism for the season ahead. The integration of the new signings is still ongoing, but the early signs are highly encouraging. As the Magpies aim to build on last season’s League Two campaign, the squad feels more complete, balanced, and capable of handling any challenges that arise. For the supporters, this summer’s transfer window has not just brought in new players, it has rekindled belief that Notts County can push for even greater success this season. Meadow Lane once again feels like a place where anything is possible. Check out our Opposition View with Bromley fan Steff Bale. He shares his thoughts on the club ahead of their game against Notts County. Check out Pride of Nottingham for valuable insights! Notts County is set to take on Bromley this weekend. Head over to Pride of Nottingham and join the match discussion. Share your thoughts and predictions!