GREG Abbott has revealed how Sheffield United boss Nigel Clough showered Notts County with praise and says it proves they are no longer viewed as a soft touch.
The Magpies recorded a 1-1 draw against the much-fancied Blades recently and were close to a win until Jamie Murphy's equaliser.
It maintained Shaun Derry's record of being unbeaten on the road this season, in stark contrast to last season's campaign when Notts had a case of travel sickness.
Magpies assistant boss Abbott said Clough, son of the late Nottingham Forest great Brian, had nothing but good things to say about the club.
"Nigel said some terrific things about us because we said we might be punching a little bit above our weight," he said.
"He was having none of it. He said we were a very well organised team, difficult to beat, hard to break down, we've got goals in the team and have some decent players.
"He also said we played some nice football at times. So there is respect there.
"Last year teams were coming to us and thinking it was three points up for grabs, now they are thinking we don't want to lose to a team who are well drilled and pretty well organised.
"We are okay with that. It's nice to hear."
Notts face another examination of their credentials when they host high-flying Swindon at Meadow Lane.
Notts have not beaten a side in the top half of the table this season, but Abbott says that does not concern him.
"It's about getting 70-75 points and if we have to beat everybody below the top six then we will do," he said.
"We've had some good performances away from home. We were narrowly beaten at home by Bristol City.
"It will be a concern if we don't reach that 75 points and then we can work out why that is.
"But it's not a major issue. We nearly beat Sheffield United and Preston.
"It's fine margins."
