On Saturday afternoon, George Abbott’s Notts County side were in League Two action, as they welcomed Harrogate to Meadow Lane.
Having missed the midweek trip to Barrow with a minor injury, Abbott was available again for this one, and went straight back into the starting line up. Notts manager Stuart Maynard deployed the 19-year old in a midfield two as he often does, partnering skipper Matt Palmer.
Notts managed to secure an important victory, having only won one of their four previous league outings (albeit, only one defeat too), courtesy of a 58th minute goal from striker Alassana Jatta, in a game they completely dominated, with 69% possession, 24 shots to five, and three big chances to zero.
In a very good collective display, Abbott had a great game individually too. The Spurs loanee recorded; 64 touches, 44/50 accurate passes, two chances created, 5/8 ground duels won, one foul drawn, one clearance, two interceptions, and three tackles. He was again trusted by Maynard to play 90 minutes, despite his young age.
It’s safe to say that things are going really well for Abbott so far, individually and collectively. A Notts County fan called the midfielder a “star” and how he could be their best loan signing since Jack Grealish, who played for them in the 13/14 season.
Other than perhaps Luka Vuskovic, Abbott has certainly had the most fruitful loan of all of the players loaned out this summer. There are players on loan who are struggling to get starts, and others that are being left out of the match day squad altogether. That too, and their teams are struggling.
Yet, the only game Abbott has been on the bench for was his debut. Since then, he has started every game, barring one because of injury. He has played as both a right-wing back, a central midfielder, and a number ten. No doubt he has been best playing as a central midfielder, but it is for sure a big testament to his versatility and his tactical flexibility at such a young age.
It is all happening for a really good team, too. Notts County are third in League Two, and have picked up 26 points from their 14 games. They are four points off top spot, and are five points clear of MK Dons – who currently sit in the first position outside of the play-offs.
Just all round fantastic stuff. Next up is an FA Cup tie against Alfreton at home on Friday night, 19:45 GMT kick off.