Notts County manager Martin Paterson prepares for the League Two play-off final at Wembley after beating Chesterfield in the semi-finals.
Martin Paterson led Notts County to a fifth-place finish in League Two, securing a spot in the play-offs with a 1-0 aggregate win over Chesterfield. The semi-final series included a tense 0-0 draw in the second leg, which sent County to face Salford City at Wembley on Monday, 25 May 2026. Paterson took charge at Meadow Lane for his first full season after a brief stint at Burton Albion in 2024. The former striker, who played in the Premier League for Burnley and represented Stoke and Huddersfield, emphasized the club’s progress under his leadership.
Paterson revealed he unwinds by chopping trees in the garden and spending time with his family in the coming days. He described these activities as ways to manage the pressures of management and stay focused on the team’s goals. When asked about his preferred music, he singled out one artist as essential listening. Paterson stated, "George Strait. The only one. He's a legend."
The Notts County head coach plans to lean on former managers with promotion-winning experience for guidance in the lead-up to the final. Among them are Sean Dyche and Eddie Howe, both of whom previously managed Burnley and are now at Newcastle United. Paterson also mentioned receiving advice from Tony Pulis before the semi-final second leg. He said, "The gaffer texted me about clean sheets," highlighting the importance of defensive solidity. Paterson acknowledged his reliance on mentors, stating, "I've got lots of mentors that I speak to because I don't know everything and I'm not always going to be right."
Paterson’s ultimate aim this season is to guide Notts County back to League One, a division they last competed in 2015. The Magpies have faced numerous challenges in recent years, including ownership changes, financial difficulties, and four seasons in the National League after relegation from League Two in 2019. Reflecting on the semi-final win, Paterson stressed it was merely a step forward. He added, "We will need to improve on certain aspects, which is great—that's coaching and that's being a football team that wants to improve. But I have to say I'm very proud of the team."