Dearden - Nicky Best In Division 2

Last updated : 09 October 2002 By
Nick Fenton
Fenton, aged 22, was signed by Jocky Scott in December 2000 for £125,000 from Manchester City which looks like a real bargin. Fenton had been signed on loan by Sam Allardyce in October 1999, but only stayed for 3 months before returning to Maine Road.

Fenton had obviously left a lasting impression at Meadow Lane, as several of the backroom team urged Jocky Scott to have a look and him and bring him to the club permanently. Scott obviously saw what had impressed those at Meadow Lane, and brought the youngster in.

This season Fenton has been consistant throughout, and has become a favourite with the fans. He has obviously worked hard on areas of his game over the past year, and now Notts are starting to see the rewards.

Dearden
Boss Bill Dearden told the Nottingham Evening Post;
"You look at what we have seen in Division Two of what other teams have been like, and I don't think we have seen a better defender at this level than Nicky," he said.
"I don't think there is one to be honest.
"He has ability, but he has also been incredibly consistent for us.
"He is strong and powerful and performs well on a regular basis.
"He is reliable. You know what you are going to get from him in every game."
Dearden also said he would be shocked if higher clubs were not looking at the 22 year old;
"But if anyone is looking for a defender I wouldn't be surprised if they started talking about Nicky.