As Newport County prepare to take on Notts County away at Meadow Lane, we take a closer look at Saturday’s opponents.
What’s their story?
Founded in 1862, Notts County holds the prestigious title of the world’s oldest professional football club. Their rich history began in 1877 with their participation in the FA Cup, followed by their pivotal role as one of the 12 founding members of the Football League in 1888.
Over the years, the club has witnessed numerous triumphs, including the signing of England international Tommy Lawton in 1947, which brought record-breaking crowds to Meadow Lane. However, after his departure, the club endured a period of decline and found itself in the Fourth Division by the 1960s.
The 1970s and 1980s marked a golden era for Notts County, largely under the management of Jimmy Sirrel. His leadership secured three promotions, culminating in a remarkable rise to the First Division in 1981. The club's most recent stint in the top flight was the 1991–92 season, when Neil Warnock led them to back-to-back promotions through thrilling play-off victories at Wembley.
The early 2000s proved challenging, with off-field issues leading to relegation from the Football League in 2019. Despite this setback, Notts County showed resilience, bouncing back after four years in non-league football, and secured a triumphant return to the Football League in 2023.
Who’s the boss?
Stuart Maynard, 44, was appointed head coach of Notts County in January 2024. Maynard brings a wealth of experience from both his playing and coaching career, mainly in English football's lower leagues.
Maynard started his playing career as an apprentice at Watford before brief spells at FC Groningen in the Netherlands and St Albans City. He spent most of his career in non-league football, playing for Aylesbury United, Enfield, and Hitchin Town.
He transitioned to coaching in 2012, first as assistant manager at Hemel Hempstead Town, and later followed his mentor, Dean Brennan, to Billericay Town, Kingstonian, and Wealdstone.
After a successful stint at Wealdstone, Maynard was appointed permanent manager in 2021, bringing stability and success to the club. His success at Wealdstone caught the attention of Notts County, and in January 2024, Maynard took the reins at Meadow Lane, succeeding Luke Williams.
Who’s the skipper?
Matt Palmer, the captain of Notts County, brings invaluable leadership and experience to the team. Born in Derby, Palmer began his football journey in Derby County’s youth system before joining Burton Albion’s academy.
He made his senior debut for Burton in 2012 and became an integral part of their squad, even featuring in the 2014 League Two play-off final, where Burton narrowly lost 1–0 to Fleetwood Town. Palmer made 159 appearances for Burton before stints at Rotherham United, Bradford City, and Swindon Town.
Palmer joined Notts County in 2021, where his steady performances and leadership qualities earned him the captaincy following Macaulay Langstaff's departure.
Who are the key players?
Alassana Jatta
Alassana Jatta has emerged as one of Notts County’s most dangerous attacking threats this season.
The Gambian forward, who has netted 10 goals in 13 appearances across all competitions, began his career with Real de Banjul in his homeland before moving to Estonia's Paide Linnameeskond, where he scored 13 goals in 17 league matches. Jatta later joined Viborg FF in Denmark, where he helped secure promotion to the Danish Superliga and made his top-flight debut in 2021.
On February 1, 2024, Jatta made a €150,000 transfer to Notts County, where he has quickly become a fan favorite with his goal-scoring performances that have bolstered the club’s attacking options.
David McGoldrick
Another key player for Notts County is David McGoldrick, a 35-year-old striker with a wealth of experience.
McGoldrick began his career at Notts County before leaving for Southampton in 2004. He went on to have successful stints at clubs such as Nottingham Forest, Ipswich Town, Sheffield United, and Derby County.
McGoldrick was instrumental in Derby’s promotion to the Championship, scoring 25 goals in 45 appearances and being named Derby's Player of the Year for the 2022–23 season. After a year at Derby, McGoldrick rejoined Notts County in June 2023, marking his return to his hometown club 19 years after leaving.
With his experience and goal-scoring ability, McGoldrick provides valuable leadership and attacking options for Notts County.