Notts County have just eight games left to save their season as well their status as the World's Oldest Football League club.

The Magpies currently sit three points adrift of safety of the Sky Bet League Two table, and are staring relegation to the National League for the first time in their 157-year history right in the race after a dismal run of form.

It's a must-win game for Neal Ardley's men at the weekend - they face promotion-chasing Exeter City at Meadow Lane, with an invaluable three points up for grabs for both teams.

It's clear to see where County have gone wrong this term - they are on to their third different manager of the season in Ardley, and have nearly 40 professionals on the books, either at the club or out on loan.

Regardless of what division Notts find themselves in next season, a summer overhaul is surely needed. Here, we take a look at three players that the East Midlands club must look to get rid of in the summer...

David Vaughan

It was seen as a magnificent coup when Notts signed the Welsh international from Nottingham Forest in the summer, but it is a move that has gone downhill ever since.

The midfielder just isn't up to the physicality of League Two, and has made just 17 league starts for the bottom club in the Football League.

He's likely to be on a hefty wage package having made such a drop down in the summer, so getting him off the wage bill could be beneficial for the club next summer.

Jon Stead

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Perhaps a controversial shout for some, but it's about time Stead moves on to pastures new.

The 35-year old is losing a yard of pace every year, and is another player who just isn't up to the physicality of the league now.

He has been a fantastic servant for the club over the last few years, scoring a total of 51 goals in over 150 appearances, and has netted 10 times in all competitions this term, but he isn't getting any younger, and perhaps a role in coaching could be an interesting option for the experienced forward.

Shaun Brisley

A player who flourished under Kevin Nolan last season but has failed to replicate that form this season is Brisley.

The central defender hasn't featured for the Magpies since New Year's Day, and has fallen massively down the pecking order at Meadow Lane this term.

At the age of 28, he'll want to get out there and play some football, and he can't get at Notts.