I think it’ll be a case of us chasing the play-offs next season, says Notts County’s Tootle

By Adam Ellis

Notts County defender Matt Tootle holds play-off aspirations for the Magpies next season after their recent spell of fine form.

The Midlands outfit have been revived since the new manager and owner duo of Kevin Nolan and Alan Hardy took up the senior roles at Meadow Lane.

After seven victories in their last eleven league matches, Tootle believes the good times are set to return at the EFL’s oldest club.

“Looking at the possibilities for the future, it’s an exciting time here,” the former Crewe Alexandra full-back told the Nottingham Post.

“When I signed here in the summer I had expectations of being involved in a title push or the play-offs.

“Looking at the way things are now I think that will be the case next season.

Hardy completed his takeover from Ray Tew last December in a £3.5million deal with the club laying 22nd in the League Two table.

His appointment of former Bolton and Newcastle midfielder Kevin Nolan in January has seen the Magpies more than double their points tally to climb to 16th in the standings.

A strong finish that Tootle believes started with the change in ownership.

“When a new owner comes in, it gives everybody a lift,” the 26-year-old said.

“The fans are happy again and things are going well on the pitch.

“We are in a position we can build for next season which is a positive as a player because you like to know you are at a club moving in the right direction.”

County will have the chance to test their play-off credentials when they take on current promotion-pushers Carlisle United at Brunton Park on Saturday.