Monday will be a day to celebrate for Notts County because the youth scheme is being officially re-launched.

It's just over three years since the scheme was shut down as a cost-cutting measure and at 8.30 prompt, 15 hopeful young scholars will be reporting for duty at Meadow Lane for the first time.

Chairman John Armstrong-Holmes and his co-directors have worked tirelessly alongside Manager Ian McParland, Centre of Excellence Manager Mick Leonard and the rest of the coaching staff to re-introduce the scheme, which was the lifeblood of County for so many years.

A huge step forward was made last summer when the Centre of Excellence was re-launched, and the vast majority of the new scholars have been promoted from last year's under-16 team. Two of those who are beginning two-year scholarships - Alex Troke and Lewis Williamson - have already been involved with the County first-team because they were drafted into the injury-hit squad for the game against Dagenham.

Monday is also a big day for former County defender Michael Johnson as he takes up his duties as youth coach and he said: "It is really exciting that the youth team has been re-formed ... not just for Notts County but the city of Nottingham.

"The kids are the heartbeat of this club and having them around is something that has been missed in the last few years.

"From a personal point of view I'm delighted to have the opportunity to give something back and I'll do my damndest to produce players good enough for the first-team in the future.

"There's so much to do behind the scenes to get everything ready for the lads. Believe me, I've come down to earth with a bump over the last few weeks - but come Monday morning we'll be ready to go."