Neal Ardley admits he has not enjoyed his time as Notts County manager because “too many things have gone on” during his reign.
The Magpies boss was tasked with keeping the club in the Football League when he became the club’s third manager of the season following his appointment last November.
He can still lead them to the greatest escape in their history at Swindon on Saturday if Notts can secure victory and Cambridge beat Macclesfield.
Why Notts County won't be going gung-ho at Swindon for biggest game in their history
It has been a gruelling and arduous season for Notts who were put up for sale in January by chairman Alan Hardy and are in the process of being taken over by a South African consortium.
But asked whether he had enjoyed his time in the Meadow Lane hotseat, Ardley said: “No is the honest answer.
“There have been far too many things that have gone on at this club for it to be enjoyable.
“I enjoy going on to the training pitch with a group of players Monday to Friday.
“I love working with players whether it is improving their fitness or their minds or their tactics.
Neal Ardley has no fears about a lack of integrity ahead of Notts County's date with destiny
“Then you get to Saturday, you cross your fingers and then it gets a little bit nerve-wracking.
“This has been a tough gig, there’s no doubt.
“But we are here going into the last game with a chance, albeit a slim one, of pulling off something remarkable.”
