Notts County Season Preview: Nolan’s impact

Notts County managed 10 wins in 21 following the January appointment of Kevin Nolan, having taken twice the number of games to get the previous 10. Improved work rate and morale pays tribute to the high-profile rookie’s powers of motivation and his passion for the role is clear to see.

This season however, presents fresh challenges. This is Nolan’s first transfer window as a manager and, by his own admission, he has found it difficult not being able to mentally switch off, as he could as a player. Additions have not been bad, but nor do they embolden pre-summer suggestions of a promotion push this term.

Versatile forward Lewis Alessandra did well at Plymouth but was part of a poor Hartlepool side last year while winger Terry Hawkridge was deemed replaceable by Lincoln fans. Centre-back Shaun Brisley and left-back Daniel Jones should add experience if they can stay fit, but represent the only additions to a defence that shipped 76 last term.

Some may be surprised therefore that Richard Duffy and Haydn Hollis, centre-backs arguably responsible for the above statistic, have been given new deals. The Magpies should be aided though by the retention of versatile performers Elliott Hewitt and Robert Milsom, the latter among the few to show spirit before January.

Strikers Jonathan Stead and Shola Ameobi faced each other in the top flight in 2004 when Blackburn lost to Newcastle. If either starts up top, they will provide strength and experience, the hope being that midfielders and wide men join attacks quickly to compensate for their lack of pace.

A club of Notts County’s size deserves a side that can compete for the top seven at this level, but in reality, they may fall a little short.

The Football Lab’s Verdict: 13th

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