Notts County's Stephen Hunt has admitted he was playing through a tough pain barrier in the final weeks of the season to ensure the Club retained its League status.

And it was worth every ounce for the left-sided defender.

The former Southampton trainee had been playing with a painful pelvic injury for some time; originally picked up back in February in the 1-0 defeat to Darlington.

However, he played a further seven games through the pain barrier between that Tuesday evening and the end of the season when injuries took their toll on the squad.

All hands to the pump were required in order to keep the Club in the League, and Hunt was only too happy to oblige when asked by Ian McParland and Dave Kevan.

He said: "I'd been carrying the injury for a while in the pelvic area.

"I had been in quite a bit of pain, and I'd had quite a few mornings where I woke up and been barely able to move.

"But, that is a part of football I suppose.

"Maybe I shouldn't have been playing during April, but I was determined to make sure the Club was safe.

"If we were safe I am sure I wouldn't have been playing, but the Gaffer and Dave said they wanted everyone fit if possible - so it was a case of all hands to the pump really."

Hunt will now rest up during the summer to allow the injury to clear; and then return to pre-season training fit and ready ahead of another campaign.

Remember supporters have up until 31 May to take advantage of the early-purchase discount on Season Tickets for the 2008/09 season. Tickets are on sale for Magpies fans the Kop Stand for the first time, with Adult tickets working out at JUST £10.87 per game! Under 12's again go free in all stands - and Season Tickets are on sale now!!! Click here for more information.