Holmes Sets Sights On Return

Holmes Is Targeting A First Team Recall

Holmes has not started a game this season for The Magpies, and made just 2 brief substitute appearances against Crewe and Wigan Athletic but has vowed to regain his place in Billy Deardens side.

He made only 1 start last season and 2 sub appearances, his last start coming on Boxing Day last year when Notts lost 2-1 at Wrexham with Lee Trundle hitting a late winner against The Magpies. After failing to make an impression in the side after, he joined Conference side Hereford United on loan.

"I went on loan to Hereford at the end of last season and that helped me no end." Holmes told the Nottingham Evening Post
"It was a big drop down in standard, but it was also the chance to play competitive first-team football.
"And there is nothing quite like that. To be honest, I enjoyed it a lot."

In Holmes' first season for The Magpies he was vertually an ever presant, and his darting runs down the right hand side and crossing were a delight to see, and he was attracting interest from Dave Sexton as he was tipped for an England U21 call up.

Holmes Was A Regular In His First Professional Season

But after Jocky Scott took charge Holmes career at Notts took a backward step, Scott rarely used him and when he did he was playing him in an unfamiliar left back role. During the Christmas period of Jocky's reign at Notts, Holmes forced his way back into the side, but was withdrawn at half time against Rotherham when Notts were losing 1-0 and in the end Notts won 4-1 and Holmes was not used again by Scott.

"I did lose a lot of confidence under Jocky, I did reach a very low point. But I feel a whole lot more confident now." Holmes admitted.

Holmes Has Praised Billy Dearden

Holmes praised Notts manager Billy Dearden saying:
"He has a knack of keeping you feeling positive.
"If he leaves you out or if he thinks you are not doing particularly well at something, he will take you to one side and talk to you about it, explain what he wants from you instead.
"At least you know where you stand, you do not feel as though you are being left out in the cold, which had not always been the case."

Dearden has been impressed with Holmes' effort and commitment so far, and a recall to the starting 11 may not be too far away.