Notts County FC: The Magpies’ Battle for League Two Promotion

2 January 2026 Football

The World’s Oldest Professional Club Chases Promotion

Founded in 1862, Notts County holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest professional football club. As the New Year begins, the Magpies find themselves in a crucial phase of their 2025-26 League Two campaign, fighting to secure promotion back to League One. As the new year begins, Notts County occupies the sixth position in the League Two table with 39 points.

Current Season Challenges

Under manager Martin Paterson, they are in the playoff race but must recover from a recent dip in form. The Magpies are looking for a first win in four games, having recently suffered setbacks including a defeat to Chesterfield and a frustrating draw with MK Dons. The Magpies’ place in the top seven is at stake in midweek given that they sit sixth in the table with 39 points, just one point above eighth-placed Cambridge United.

The pressure is mounting at Meadow Lane, with only one win in their last five home games, making upcoming fixtures crucial for maintaining their playoff position.

Historic Background and Recent Journey

As one of the 12 founding members of the Football League in 1888, Notts County’s history spans pivotal moments in English football. The club won the FA Cup in 1894, becoming the first team outside the top division to claim the trophy. The club’s 2022-23 season saw one of the most dramatic promotion campaigns in non-league history, with Notts County amassing a record 107 points yet finishing second to Wrexham. The Magpies secured their return to League Two through the play-offs, defeating Chesterfield 4-3 on penalties at Wembley after a thrilling 2-2 draw.

Looking Ahead: Playoff Ambitions

For Notts County supporters, the remainder of the season represents a critical opportunity. Depending on other results, they could inch closer to the playoff spots, particularly with Walsall and Swindon Town just ahead. With Martin Paterson at the helm and playing at their historic home ground since 1910, the Magpies must rediscover their winning formula to achieve their promotion ambitions and restore the club to higher divisions of English football.