Wilko happy to help

Wilkinson's appointment came as a bolt from the blue for Notts' fans, and his return comes 25 years after Notts County gave him his first job in league management.

He has since gone on to manage at the highest level at Leeds Utd, Sheffield Wednesday and Sunderland. He has also managed the England U21's and was Caretaker of the senior squad for a short while. Such experience is sure to be a great help to Richardson as he continues to make the transition from player to manager.

But Wilkinson insists he is here only to advise Richardson, and is not after the 35-year-old's job.

Howard: Here to help

"There are other management jobs available at a higher level of the game," he told the NEP. "It would perhaps be fair to say there are more attractive management jobs that I could have gone for.

"That is not why I am here. I am here to give advice on football issues to the board and, if required, to give help and advice to Ian Richardson.

"If he wants me, I will be there. I am happy to give my opinion if he wants it."

The 61-year-old - who himself was guided through his first steps in management by the legendary Jimmy Sirrel - is reportedly unpaid in his current capacity, and admits he is doing it mainly for the loyalty he feels to the club who gave him his first job in league management.

"I feel I have an obligation to Notts County," continued Wilkinson. "They were the first club to give me my chance in League football. They gave me the chance to show what I can do.

"This is my way of retiring as well. At this stage I want only want to do things I want to do and to work with people I want to work with."

Richo: May benefit from guidance

On Wilkinson's appointment, Chief Executive Patrick Nelson stated that it was a big step forward for the club and that he was certain that his experience would prove an invaluable asset for Richardson.

"We want him to come here and be a mentor to Ian, we want him to help make Ian the best manager possible," Nelson told the NEP.

"At the moment Ian may look round and wonder who he can bounce ideas off. We have a good management team here; we are happy with the coaching staff. But the one thing we do not have is the kind of experience Howard has.

"He has been there and done it and we are delighted to have him on board. I am sure his influence will be invaluable. This really is big news for Notts County."

The appointment of such a big name has come as a surprise to many, but shows again that Notts County is certainly finding its feet off-the-field after years of turmoil.

Hopefully Wilkinson, alongside Richardson, can be a key factor in sorting out matters on-the-field. We wish him all the best.