Notts County have found another gem on loan in Rory Finneran, and they will hope they can retain him for the full season.
Notts County have had a difficult start with their first eight League One games after winning promotion last season. The Magpies have mainly faced sides that should be challenging for a top six finish this term.
Despite a winless run of five matches in the league, Martin Paterson can be hopeful his side will have a respectable first campaign in the third tier. Their odds of doing so are helped by the performances of Rory Finneran.
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Notts County signed the 18-year-old on loan from Newcastle United for the 2026/27 season. The midfielder has been one of the Magpies’ top performers so far and is showing his raw talent in just his first senior year of football.
The Verdict: Notts County cannot afford to lose Rory Finneran in January
Finneran only signed for the Premier League outfit in August 2024 after coming through the academy at Blackburn Rovers. Despite his first loan spell being at Meadow Lane, the 18-year-old is quickly making a name for himself.
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Given the nature of his top displays for Notts County, it’s only right that the Magpies begin to fear the prospect of losing the teenage star in January. If Newcastle United want to test the midfielder, they could opt to recall him and send him to a Championship club to boost his development.
It isn’t confirmed whether such clause is inserted in his loan deal. However, Paterson will be hoping he can keep Finneran for the remainder of the season. There’s no doubt that a player of his quality is good enough to keep the Magpies in League One and as long as they’re giving him game time, they should fancy their chances of retaining him.
Notts County continue to use the loan market well
Paterson’s side’s use of the loan market last season was a crucial reason as to why they achieved promotion from League Two. With the likes of Tom Iorpenda, Tyrese Hall and Jayden Luker, Notts County had an extraordinary amount of quality in their squad.
The Magpies made five loan signings this summer. Most of their additions have brought some untapped potential with them. Ishe Samuels-Smith, Daniel Kanu, Hindolo Mustapha and Finneran are all exciting young talents. If utilised appropriately, they can thrive in League One.
Oliver Cooper was also brought to Meadow Lane. His experience in midfield is another crucial component of Notts County’s smart recruitment. If all loanees can perform as well as last season’s did, Paterson’s side could end up surprising a few this term.
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