13 may be unlucky for some but for Francois Zoko this is not the case.
13 is not only the forward’s squad number, but the date of both his and his wife’s birthdays, which is why he classes it as special.
2012 may not have ended in the manner that the former Carlisle man had wished, having found himself on the bench on more than one occasion.
2013 contains his lucky digits but Zoko knows it will take more than good fortune for him and the team to be successful.
“I don’t see it as anything like this but I work in training and try to enjoy myself on the pitch,” he told Magpie Player.
“I know I have the ability to do something and if my fitness is good I can do a lot of things special.
“I want to do things special here – so I hope it can be a good year.”
He added: “I never give an excuse if I play good or not good, I just assume and try every time to prove myself.
“I came here and started well, so I know it can happen and I just have to go on and work hard.
“Now I just want to play and prove myself, enjoy my football and make everybody happy, like what I did at Carlisle.”
Zoko is hoping to be in the starting 11 for Saturday’s scheduled encounter with high-flying Sheffield United at Meadow Lane (3pm kick-off).
To watch the full interview with the Ivorian, sign in to Magpie Player.