90 Starting issues

Hi All,
After some pointers on an embarrassing (for the wife not me) starting issue.
Turn the key - starter motor spins, but no start. Takes random variations of the below to actually get it to fire up. :-
Wiggle of gear stick.
In Gear foot on clutch, foot off fuel.
In Gear foot on clutch, foot on fuel.
Out of gear, foot off clutch, foot off fuel.
Out of gear, foot on clutch (yes i know), foot off fuel.
Out of gear, foot on clutch (yes i know), foot on fuel.
And sometimes as last resort:-
In gear, foot off clutch, off fuel - generates a stall, but will start on next turn over.
New battery and motor supplied.
I think the record s far is ~ 10 attempts on variations of above.

what engine

Good Point !
Engine is an ex Discovery 200 TDi.

Sounds like the bendix is not engaging the flywheel, unless you mean that the engine turns over and it doesn't start ?

If starter bendix is sticking none of your "footsy" stuff is doing anything, it is just luck it eventually engages.

Do you meant that you have fitted a new battery and starter motor?

Thanks guys.
your advice seems bang on, and despite being unable resist the urge to wiggle things about I guess tottot is correct.