TheSkipper

Notts County has made an exciting decision by bringing Stuart Maynard on board as their new head coach. At 43 years old, Maynard is joining us from Wealdstone, where he made a name for himself with his accomplishments and unique style of play in the National League. As a fellow fan, I couldn't be happier with this appointment, and here's why. Firstly, Maynard has proven that he can do extraordinary things with limited resources. He took the reins at Wealdstone in March 2021 and guided them to their highest league position in 36 years, finishing 13th in the National League. He managed to repeat this achievement in the subsequent season, despite losing some key players and navigating the challenges of the Covid pandemic. He kept Wealdstone competitive and entertaining, fostering a style of football that was both attractive and true to their identity. In his own words, Maynard said, "I think they're a really humble group... they're just genuinely good guys that want to do the best for the football club." This humility and dedication are precisely what Notts County needs at this moment. The club is working with a tight budget in League Two, having been promoted from the National League last season. They're aiming for another promotion, but they're up against larger and wealthier clubs. They need a head coach who can maximise what he has, motivate and develop the players, and instil a winning culture. Maynard is the perfect fit. He has a clear vision and philosophy, which he successfully implemented at Wealdstone. He prefers a 5-4-1 formation, with a high-pressing and high-intensity approach. He likes his team to be solid and organised in defence, but also creative and dynamic in attack. He likes to utilise pace and width, exploiting the spaces behind the opposition defence. He enjoys scoring goals and entertaining the fans. Maynard believes that his style of play at Wealdstone fits perfectly with Notts County. He said, "Yeah, I feel that the way that we played at Wealdstone fits kind of straight away into Notts... I think it's a perfect fit." This is a testament to his confidence and adaptability, which are crucial for a head coach. These are all qualities that we, as Notts County fans, can appreciate. The club has a proud history and tradition, and it deserves a head coach who can restore its glory. Maynard has demonstrated that he respects and understands the club's ethos and values, and that he's ready to take on the challenge. His three-and-a-half-year deal shows his commitment and ambition. Furthermore, Maynard has shown that he's willing to make sacrifices and take risks for his career. He left his job as a BT technician to focus full time on his new role at Notts County. He left a club where he was admired and respected, where he had built strong relationships with the players and fans, and where he had achieved remarkable results. He took a leap of faith and a step-up, knowing that he would face more pressure and scrutiny at Notts County. This speaks volumes about his passion for the game and his confidence in his abilities. He's not here just to make up the numbers or to settle for mediocrity. He's here to make a difference, to take Notts County to the next level. He's here to fulfil his potential and to help the club fulfil theirs. He's here to make history and to make us proud. I fully support Stuart Maynard and his coaching team. I believe he's the right man for the job, and I'm excited to see what he can do with our club. I think he will bring success and joy to Meadow Lane, and I can't wait to see him in action. I wish him all the best, and I hope he will make us all happy. As Maynard himself said, "Look, there's no guarantees in it... But look, it's always the aim. When you're a club like Notts, first and foremost, you want success... and that's what hopefully we can bring. Pride of Nottingham member, Robbie, has asked our community 'What's the point of VAR?' - join in the discussion and share your thoughts on how it can be improved. Share your post-match thoughts on the Barrow game, read what other Pride of Nottingham members have had to say and join in the discussion.