Magpies will be a tough nut to crack

NOTTS County manager Shaun Derry was glad to escape with a draw when facing Leyton Orient and their under-pressure boss Russell Slade in midweek.

Loan winger Zeli Ismail scored the opening goal from a penalty before a second-half assault from the big-spending team from the capital saw them draw level with a penalty of their own.

County are getting a reputation like Athletic, for being a difficult side to beat.

Notts County are a point worse off than Athletic in 16th place after a mixed start to the season - albeit one with some tough fixtures.

Wins against Colchester and Port Vale are counted against a home loss to leaders Bristol City, a draw against Peterborough and a 1-1 draw with Orient two days ago.

The summer saw plenty of activity take place at Meadow Lane. Even by League One standards, the number of transactions was extraordinary, with 35 players in, out or released.