NCM: "We will not be knocked"

Ciaran Toner agrees new Grimsby deal.

NCM verdict: NCM proudly gave you the exclusive that Toner would be signing for Notts in the summer after a tip off from a reliable, anonymous source who told us the deal was complete apart from the signature.

Toner... Only ink is required to complete Town deal

However, news has today reached us that Toner has verbally agreed a contract extension with the Mariners, meaning he will not be a Magpie now next season.

We believe it is a loss considering he is a player with some talent at this level… even if he didn't perform that brilliantly when the sides met recently.

In terms of our exclusive, we will not be knocked and will continue to look for other exclusives, probably through different contacts!

Incidentally, Radio Nottingham caught wind of our story and were also of the belief he was a possible addition - not that we are looking for excuses!

James Walker and Myles Weston extend loans until end of the season.

NCM Verdict: Encouraging news. The Charlton duo have been exciting since they were finally given a chance in the side. They can still have an impact as Notts chase what is now an unlikely playoff slot.

With manager Steve Thompson insisting that he will only sign loan players with a view to a permanent move - NCM would ask whether this means they will be long-term additions come the summer?

If they were to be, that would be a real coup for the club as both have shown they can be frightening on the attack and could have good futures ahead of them. Hopefully it also means Thompson will give them a fair run out in the final three fixtures to impress more, giving Notts a better chance of winning some football matches.

Junior Mendes to stay at Lincoln until after the playoffs.

Mendes... Won't be wearing a Notts shirt again

NCM Verdict: We have been lucky to grab two exclusive interviews with the striker who had a much publicised spat with Thompson. He came across well, though the truth will not out itself totally of course.

At Lincoln, Mendes has yet to score from two starts and four substitute appearances. However, he has performed reasonably well, at least until he gets sight of goal where his finishing has been wasteful.

City's fans are divided about his extended deal with certain members of the press also unimpressed by him. Mendes however told NCM he is happy with his role there: "I'm happy to play a cameo role between now and the end of the season," he said.

He could yet figure at the New Wembley Stadium, and who knows, that may come against Notts.

The County Cup returns.

NCM Verdict: After a six year absence, the Nottingham based trophy makes a return. Previously, Notts, Mansfield Town and Nottingham Forest entered the competition, with the previous years winners given a by into the final. The other two would fight it out in a semi-final. Forest were usually the victors, and were so on the last occasion beating Notts 1-0 at the City Ground.

By then, it was largely only reserve and youth players whereas going deeper into the past shows that managers would take it far more seriously.

You can judge for yourself whether it has lost its magic when Notts host Mansfield in the final at Meadow Lane on May 2^nd.

NCM believe it will be a good chance for Thompson to see a few of the fringe players and out of contract men for the final time before the summer transfer activity. Also, after two draws, somebody needs to have the pride of Nottinghamshire title.

Kevin Pilkington praises fans and dreams of promotion.

NCM Verdict: Speaking to the Official Site Pilkington said: "Our fans were behind us all the way on Saturday and they deserve a lot of credit for that because they were brilliant.

Pilkington... Singing the praises of fans

"(Walsall) got promoted, and that is what we wanted to be doing - dancing and signing with our supporters after promotion."

NCM feels Pilkington is right to praise the fans after yet another season that is set to end without promotion. Notts fans haven't had too much to shout about - other than a fine Carling Cup run earlier in the campaign - of late and are entitled to expect more form a club with 'Championship' written all over it.

To hear him talk so excitedly about gaining promotion is a welcome boost and gives us hope that the players will drive on to achieve that.

NCM also extends a hand to Hartlepool and Walsall to congratulate fine seasons and their promotion. Good luck next season to the Pool and the Saddlers.