McPie

I think from a defensive point of view we will be strong this season. I can see us being hard to beat. Which we will need to be in league 1. Not just the defenders, but a strong midfield in front them is good to see. Some additions in the attacking department and we can look forward to an exciting season. COYP.

As you say@Mapperley Pie we are stacking out the midfield. Another club captain so plenty of leaders on the pitch. I would expect Jatta to leave and Smyth looks a good replacement. Now we need a couple of 10’s to follow and things will be taking shape nicely.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luka_Smyth

For me it's not the best nor the worst we've ever had. Trying to come up with a different design every year and pleasing everyone is just about impossible. So on balance I think it's ok.

Yes It was Muir. I thought all the young lads did well when they came on. They were the creative spark that was missing in the earlier part of the game, From the evidence of this game we will need to strengthen in the forward areas before the season starts. Defensively we were fine. It's just without Jatta and Jodi where are the goals going to come from?

I think we have just made a very good signing!

I agree @Sheffield Pie Martin fully understands we are light both in squad numbers and quality. I'm pretty confident the club know what we need to competitive in League 1. His call for patient from the fans was particularly noted. I hope his words help us all to keep calm and excited about what lies ahead.

I just hope all the negativity surrounding him doesn’t affect his confidence before he has had time show what he can do.

I wouldn't be at all surprised if a lawn mower wasn't the only thing Martin Paterson requested from the owners. Could quite easily have been a striker that can hold the ball up and bring other players in to the game. If that's the case he has his wish in Emile Acquah. Could be a vital cog in the way we want to play. It most probably means playing with two strikers. It was tried last season but it didn't work with Matty Dennis. I don't think there is any way the recruitment team would sign him to be the lone striker. I suppose we will find out soon enough.

I’m pretty sure the club are aware of his lack of goals in recent seasons, so the must be looking at his potential. After all, Martin Paterson is an ex premier league strike, surely he will be able to improve him as a player where others have not succeeded. Even though Martin has himself said he is not directly involved in recruitment, but picks the team and coaches the players, It would be hard to believe that Martin’s opinion wasn’t sought before signing him.

There is Traore to factor in as well. So there could possibly some outgoings. I think there would have to be if we are chasing Mellon. Also taking into consideration injuries, loss of form and suspension, not withstanding playing at a higher level. 4 strikers might be needed.

Regarding Emile Acquah, the comment below from the site that's leading the rumour puts the situation into proper perspective. He would not be coming in as a main striker more to fill the squad with depth with the hope Martin Paterson can improve him. As it says a low risk signing. I would fully expect someone like Michael Mellon to be sign to gives a real goal threat. The Verdict: Acquah signing is a low-cost risk for Notts CountyWith Acquah’s minimal experience in League One, combined with his poor form over the last couple of years, this signing is uninspiring for Notts County. The things that work about it are simple: cost and depth. The Magpies lack depth up top that can match the profile of what they already have, Acquah does that, and does it for minimal cost. It is more than likely that this is a signing for bodies and profile, rather than immediate goals. The upside of signing Acquah is still there, aside from his profile. The forward is 25, still has room to grow and will no doubt see this as a big opportunity, something he should relish, hopefully bringing his performances up a level. It’s a risk, but a calculated and relatively cost effective one. Notts County need bodies that make sense to the way they play, Acquah is exactly that.

Regarding Aden Flint, Harlee Dean and Jonathon Leko, I'd be surprised if we were seriously looking to sign any of them. More likely making up the numbers so we could field two different teams for each half.

Dennis is a talented player, but doesn't display the right work ethic needed to be in a Martin Paterson team. This is a good move by the club to free up wages and receive a fee which can be used to replace with a player more suited to our needs. You would think with the way the club works, they wouldn't have let him go if they didn't have someone lined up to replace him.

He looks physically stronger than Conor Grant and if he has similar technical skills, we could be onto a really good signing.