Notts County face Premier League giants in pre-season test
Notts County will face a stern test of their pre-season preparations when they host Premier League side Nottingham Forest on Saturday. The Magpies have already played three times this summer, but face a tough task against the Forest, who are still adjusting to life under new manager Oliver Glasner.
What happened?
Nottingham Forest have been busy in the transfer market, with Austrian manager Glasner closing on his first signing. The Portuguese coach has taken over from Vitor Pereira, who was sacked by Evangelos Marinakis just minutes before the end of a contractual break clause. Forest have six pre-season friendlies pencilled in, with Blackburn Rovers, Vitoria, Sporting Lisbon, Bayer Leverkusen, and Brest to follow.
Why it matters for Notts County
For Notts County, the game represents a chance to build momentum ahead of the new season. The Magpies have already played three times this summer, with a 5-0 victory at Alfreton Town followed by defeats to Danish sides Viborg and Randers. Martin Paterson's side have made five signings so far, with undisclosed fees having been spent on Stoke City youngster Darius Lipsuic and Dundee forward Emile Acquah.
What comes next?
The game will be a test of Notts County's depth and squad strength, with several players likely to miss out due to injury or illness. Nick Tsaroulla, Matt Palmer, and Jodi Jones are all set to be assessed, while Callum Hudson-Odoi is unlikely to feature after surgery during the closing weeks of 2025-26. Despite the challenges, Notts County will be looking to build on their recent form, which has seen them win three of their last five games.
Recent form (last 5): 3W-2D-0L (WWDDW, most recent first); on a 2-game winning run
League standing: 5th in England League Two, 80 pts, 24W-8D-14L from 46 games, recent form WDWDW. Goals this season: 74 scored, 52 conceded (+22 goal difference). Title race: 7 points behind leaders Bromley. Last result: Notts County 3-0 Salford City (2026-05-25).
