The reality is, everyone is right. Pre-season games are essential to a teams campaign preparations whether it be a Premiership club or your local pub team.
But, what do these games mean to Notts boss Steve Thompson?
Experiment
The Magpies unlike many of League Two's sides have the luxury of being able to play in a number of different styles.
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Over the course of a season, you will come up against a number of different footballing sides.
The ability to switch between styles at ease will surely pay its rewards.
Thommo will be looking closely at what formation suits what type of game and which players in his vast squad suit each individual role.
Versatility of players is common in Thompson's summer signings. He will be looking to find out his players strong points. Tann, Canoville, Silk, Mayo, Weston and Butcher are just a few Notts players capable of operating as utility men.
And, with competition at a high for a starting shirt, just who are County's best players and what players work well together? Pre-season should reveal all.
Fitness
After a long summer break for the Notts players, it is important Thommo has his men back in training in July to raise fitness levels.
There is only so much that can be done on the training pitch though and there is no better practice than games.
Match minutes will increase players sharpness and help to reach peak for the opening game of the campaign.
Slowly easing back into match mode by playing friendly games should have the squad firing in all cylinders come mid-August.
Confidence
Friendlies are more than just trying new things and increasing fitness.
They may not be worth three points but winning is essential.
There is nothing better than entering a new season with a few healthy wins under your belt.
Clean sheets, scoring goals, creating chances and winning football matches brings confidence and optimism to ensure a lively start.
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No-one likes losing whether it be in a Cup final or a pre-season friendly.
And, with Forest on the horizon, winning means everything. Battle of the Trent - pride is at stake.
and, Team Spirit
With fresh faces arriving at Meadow Lane this summer, Thommo will be keen they settle quickly into life at Notts.
With the pressure off and regular training sessions, team bonding is near the top of the agenda.
Many of these players have not played football together before and this is something that must be addressed leading up to a promotion bidding campaign.
Pre-season gives players the chance to strike up relationships and methods of play that will most benefit the club.
The new palyers must adapt to life at Notts and get involved with the always important dressing room banter.