Notts County manager Martin Paterson has revealed his unusual pre-match routine ahead of the League Two play-off final at Wembley. The 39-year-old will spend time chopping trees in his garden and listening to country music legend George Strait as he prepares for Monday's showdown with Salford City. This follows a tense 1-0 aggregate semi-final victory over East Midlands rivals Chesterfield, secured through a defensively solid goalless draw in Friday's second leg.

Paterson, in his first full season at Meadow Lane after a brief spell with Burton Albion, uses gardening as a way to manage the pressures of management. I love getting out in the garden, and I just chop stuff down to be honest with you, he told BBC Sport. The former Burnley striker relies on mentors including Sean Dyche, Eddie Howe, and Tony Pulis for guidance during the crucial build-up period.

The Magpies are chasing promotion back to League One after an 11-year absence, having endured financial troubles and four seasons in the National League following their 2019 relegation. We know this was just a step on the way and we've got another big game coming up, Paterson said. The club's rich history as the world's oldest professional football club adds extra weight to their promotion ambitions this season.