James Belshaw will realize a childhood dream when Notts County face Wembley in Monday's League Two play-off final. The goalkeeper, who joined his boyhood club in January, lived through the Magpies' darkest decade as a supporter watching from the stands.

Between 2009-2019, the world's oldest professional club lurched from crisis to crisis. Fake sheikhs, winding-up petitions, and two relegations saw Notts County drop out of the Football League entirely. Danish brothers Christoffer and Alexander Reedtz purchased the club in 2019, restoring stability and guiding them back to League Two by 2023.

Belshaw's arrival completed a remarkable personal journey. The lifelong fan spent his youth in the stands, celebrating promotions and mourning relegations alongside his family. This week, he received advice from former heroes including Darren Ward, his goalkeeping idol since childhood. These connections to the club's history make his Wembley appearance particularly meaningful.

For Belshaw, Monday represents more than just a career milestone. It's an opportunity to give back to the institution that provided his father 60 years of joy while delivering the club's second promotion in four years.