Notts County manager Shaun Derry has admitted that he is delighted with the progress that the team have made under his stewardship.
The 36-year-old, who was appointed Magpies boss in November last year, earned praise for guiding Notts out of the League One relegation zone last season.
Derry's side currently sit 16th in the table after losing just two of their nine fixtures so far this term.
"Compare it now to where we were six months ago and we have come on leaps and bounds, not just in football terms, but as a club," Derry told the Nottingham Post.
"But I keep stressing that it is only small steps. It has to be that way. We can't change things overnight.
"If you look at the top six, they have had time to grow as a group whereas we have only had nine games. But I am pleased with the group and the small steps we have taken."
Notts travel to Crewe Alexandra this evening.
