Ex-Northern Ireland striker Martin Paterson ‘emotionally tired’ after play-off final Wembley joy as Notts County boss
Former Northern Ireland international Martin Paterson has been left “emotionally tired” following a first full year as Notts County manager which ended with League Two play-off glory.
Paterson won over 20 caps following his 2007 senior international debut, having qualified for selection via his Northern Ireland-born father.
The Notts County appointment as head coach last summer marked a significant move for Paterson given his only previous managerial experience had been a brief spell with Burton Albion.
Victory on Monday over Salford at Wembley by 3-0 in the play-off final secured Notts County promotion and a memorable finish to the campaign for Paterson, with over 20,000 Magpies fans celebrating progress.
“I’m going to enjoy it with my family because people don’t see what we go through – and I’m only a young head coach,” said Paterson after the play-off final, as reported by Press Association. “This is my first full year and I’m emotionally tired.
“Questions always get asked in this industry because it’s the opium of the people – everyone loves football. So I used it as fuel.”
Following the play-off semi-final success, Paterson revealed how “the relationship between players and fans is growing at a rate of knots”.
BBC Sport reported Paterson’s build-up plans for the Wembley showpiece would include time in the garden and listening to country music.
His club career featured a Premier League spell with Burnley.