Fascinated to see Burton. Imagine Robinson will want to play it on the floor but we all saw their pitch last season. Unless they've done serious work on it they're going to have to be very adaptable depending on weather
Definitely one of the hardest to predict, wouldn't surprise me to see them anywhere between 10-24th. Limited data on Robinson as a league manager but as you say he definitely seems to prefer his teams to get it down and play. Normally scores quite a few but defensively can be a bit dodgy. My worry for Burton if that is the approach is can they outscore teams in open games? A lot of pressure on the likes of Orsi, Burrell, Bodin and Whitfield.
I really struggle to place Burton, so many new signings and a manager that has struggled at this level before. They'll probably try and play nice football under Robinson but given the state of the pitch at the Pirelli most seasons I wonder how long that will last.
A lot of pressure on Danilo Orsi to step up from League 2 and score the bulk of their goals too.
Manager: Garry Monk. After a decent spell in charge
of Swansea, Monk bounced around a bit with little success. After 3 ½ years out
of work Monk finally returned to management at Cambridge in March. 2 wins from
his 11 games in charge just about keeping them up. Overall win percentage: 36.62%.
Players in: Kelland Watts - Newcastle (Free), James
Gibbons - Bristol Rovers (Free), Shayne Lavery - Blackpool (Free), Vicente
Reyes - Norwich (Loan), Ryan Loft - Port Vale (Undisclosed), Taylor Richards -
QPR (Loan), Gary Gardner - Birmingham (Free), Korey Smith - Derby (Free)
Key Players Out: Will Mannion – Charlton, Harrison
Dunk – Unattached, Lyle Taylor – Colchester, Ryan Bennett - Unattached
3 players to watch: Taylor Richards, back in 2020/21
Richards was a hot prospect, he scored 11 in 48 games for League One Doncaster
and was wanted by a host of Championship clubs. 3 seasons, 27 games and 0 goals
later and Richards needs to rebuild his reputation. Cambridge also need goals,
if Richards can add some from Midfield it will significantly improve their
chances of survival. Shayne Lavery, speaking of goals, Lavery needs to
provide them. The current list of Strikers for Cambridge is not inspiring,
Lavery has shown flashes in the past but needs to stay injury free and be more
consistent. Liam Bennett, had a breakthrough year last season and with
Cambridge playing a back 3 this season he will be crucial at right wing-back.
He was Cambridge’s player of the season last year and at just 22 has the
potential to get better. Will need to try and create down the right hand side
to supply opportunities for Cambridge’s front players.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Brandon
Njoku (Striker), has spent most of his time out on loan, including a 13 goals
in 21 games spell at St Ives last season. He also made 3 appearances for
Cambridge, and has been part of this summer’s pre-season with the first team.
Only 19, and with a lack of experience, but if Cambridge’s forwards struggle he
could get a chance
Summary: Cambridge lost a lot of goals, not just
through permanent departures, but also loan players like Gassan Ahadme, so
signing attacking players was crucial. Lavery and Loft are both strikers,
Lavery has shown he can score in the past, though his career has been impacted
by consistently picking up injuries, the same can’t really be said for Loft. He
managed just 2 in 38 games last season at first Bristol Rovers, then Port Vale.
Richards will need to get back to form and add goals from
Midfield, as well as the likes of Elias Kachunga chipping in with a few more.
In the centre of Midfield they’ve added experience with Gary Gardner and Korey
Smith, whilst Kelland Watts could be decent at centre back. Vicente Reyes has
been signed to replace Mannion in goal, but only has 16 football league
appearances to his name, all in League Two with Forest Green.
Goals look like they’re going to be a problem for Cambridge,
and after last years struggles, the strength of the newly promoted sides, and
Monk not exactly setting the world on fire as new manager, it looks like a hard
season ahead for Cambridge.
Manager: Scott Lindsey. Although originally from Walsall
Lindsey spent a large part of his playing career in Kent, playing for numerous
non-league sides in the area. His first managerial role also came in the county
as boss at Chatham Town. After Ben Garner left Swindon to join Charlton Lindsey
stepped up from assistant to become Manager, before leaving for Crawley who he
guided to promotion last season. Overall win percentage: 39.8%.* (*Only
includes Swindon and Crawley)
Players in: Antony Papadopoulos - Welling (Free), Charlie
Barker - Wealdstone (Undisclosed), Josh Flint - FC Volendam (Free), Rushian
Hepburn-Murphy - Swindon (Free), Scott Malone - Gillingham (Undisclosed), Toby
Mullarkey - Grimsby (Undisclosed), Gavin Holohan - Grimsby (Free), Michael
Dacosta Gonzalez - Bournemouth (Loan), JJ Wollacott - Hibernian (Undisclosed), Muhammadu
Faal - Maidstone (Free), Max Anderson - Dundee (Undisclosed), Junior Quitirna -
Fleetwood (Undisclosed), Cameron Bragg - Southampton (Loan)
3 players to watch: Ronan Darcy, One of the few key players
remaining from last seasonDarcy had a good season with 5 goals and 6
assists in the League. He will need that kind of output again if not better to
help Crawley this season. Rushian Hepburn-Murphy, Hepburn-Murphy was a
highly rated prospect, the youngest player to play for Aston Villa in the
Premier League. The Striker was highly regarded and represented England all the
way up to under 20 level. Unfortunately 10 years later things haven’t exactly
worked out. His last spell before Crawley was with Swindon where he scored 12
times in 52 games. He needs to suddenly turn all that promise into goals if
Crawley are to have any chance of staying up. Josh Flint, someone needs
to hold the defence together and it looks like Flint could be a key part in
that. Signed from the Eredivisie Flint has played at a higher level than most
of his teammates and although he doesn’t have a wealth of experience, he is at
least more used to coming up against better players which should help him out.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Max
Anderson (Midfielder), with plenty of experience in the top 2 flights of
Scottish Football Anderson should be one of Crawley’s better acquisitions. As a
defensive central Midfielder he should be busy and have lots of opportunities
to prove his worth.
Summary: Crawley have lost a lot of key players since
being promoted. It could be argued they’re actually weaker than the team that
got promoted, and this wasn’t a team that cruised to promotion. They actually
finished closer in terms of points to Grimsby who finished in 21st place than
Stockport who were the Champions.
Most of their incomings have never played at League One
level with the majority of their recruits being signed from non-league and
League Two. However they were one of the favourites for relegation last season
and got promoted. Can they beat the odds again?
Behind the scenes the club seems to change every summer,
with Chairman Preston Johnson again taking more of a hands on role. Their have
been rumours of financial problems and the transfer activity this summer has
only increased that speculation.
After losing the vast majority of their Wembley starting 11
Crawley are rebuilding. Defensively Crawley look vulnerable, they conceded 67
goals in the league and new Goalkeeper JJ Wollacott should be kept busy.
In attack they’ve lost Klaidi Lolos and Danilo Orsi, they
need Hepburn-Murphy, Darcy and others like Dacosta Gonzalez to have big seasons,
otherwise it will be a long hard season. There’s a reason Crawley are
favourites for the drop again, and 20th or above would be a great season
for them.
Manager: Gary Caldwell. Caldwell started his
managerial career at Wigan, but was unable to save them from relegation.
However they got promoted from League One at the first attempt, before being
sacked during the following season. He then went to Chesterfield where he was
also relegated before being sacked early the next season. After a spell in
Scotland with Partick Caldwell was then appointed Exeter Manager in October
2022. During that first season they finished 14th, whilst improving
one place last season to 13th. Overall win percentage: 34.1%
Players in: Jack McMillan - Partick (Free), Josh
Magennis - Wigan (Free), Jay Bird - Arbroath (Free), Ryan Woods - Hull (Free), Ed
Francis - Gateshead (Undisclosed), Joe Whitworth - Crystal Palace (Loan), Johnly
Yfeko - Rangers (Loan), Frankie Phillips - Paulton Rovers (Undisclosed), Tristan
Crama - Brentford (Loan)
Key Players Out: Zak Jules – Rotherham, Will Aimson –
Wigan, Alex Hartridge - Wycombe
3 players to watch: Reece Cole, Cole had an
impressive breakout season last year after spending the majority of the past 6
years in non-league. His goals from Midfield helped a blunt Exeter attack in
the end comfortably avoid relegation. Tristan Crama, after making 34
appearances last season for Bristol Rovers Crama is back in League One. With
the departures at centre back Crama should be a regular at the heart of the
Exeter defence. Sonny Cox, he may only be 19 but Cox ended last season
as joint top scorer for the Grecians. Exeter need to score more this season,
can Cox develop this season and fire in even more goals?
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Jake
Richards (Midfielder), only 16 years of age, but already has a number of first
team appearances. Has been part of pre-season with the Exeter first team, and
should play quite a bit as the season progresses.
Summary: Exeter’s biggest turnover has been at
Centre-back with Aimson, Hartridge and Jules all leaving to join other League
One sides. However with the arrival of Yfeko and Crama on loan they moved
quickly to replace them. That does however leave them with a lot less
experience in the centre of defence.
The biggest problem last season however for Exeter was
scoring. Only 6 teams in League One scored less than the 46 goals they managed.
They have looked to solve that problem by signing Josh Magennis from Wigan and
Jay Bird from Arbroath. Neither of them have ever been prolific in their career
though, or will someone like Cox develop and start scoring more regularly? If
one of those 3 don’t step up expect Exeter to struggle for goals again.
Exeter do though have a number of promising younger players,
both of their own and on loan. They will need the experience of the likes of Magennis,
and Woods to help them through.
I can't see beyond Bolton, Birmingham and Huddersfield battling out for the two automatic spots. The you got Blackpool, Lincoln, Rotherham, Wigan, Barnsley, Wycombe and us filling the 3-10 spots.
Orient, Exeter, Northants, Stockport, Bristol City, Wrexham and Crawley will be the next clump of teams.
Then whoever is left will be fighting not to end up in the bottom four.
Manager: Michael Duff. Duff started his managerial
career at Cheltenham, leading them to promotion to League One in his time
there. He then departed for Barnsley who he almost led to promotion as well,
but came up short in the playoff final. After a failed spell at Swansea Duff
was appointed Huddersfield Manager this summer. Overall win percentage: 42.55%
Players in: Lasse Sorensen - Lincoln City
(Undisclosed), Mickel Miller - Plymouth (Free), Herbie Kane - Barnsley (Free), Anthony
Evans - Bristol Rovers (Undisclosed)
Key Players Out: Jack Rudoni – Coventry, Sorba Thomas
– Nantes, Yuta Nakayama - Unattached
3 players to watch: Anthony Evans, After 26 goals
over the past 3 seasons from Midfield Huddersfield will be looking to their new
signing to carry on his scoring form, and help them push for promotion. Rhys
Healey, after missing out on Alfie May Huddersfield haven’t signed a Striker
so far this summer. Could Healey fill that void? Just 2 years ago he scored 20
goals in the French second tier, however since returning to England he’s
struggled. If he can find his form he could be the Striker Huddersfield are
looking for. Michal Helik, with over 150 appearances in the
Championship, and 18 goals in the last 4 seasons, the big Polish Centre-back
will be a big threat in both boxes for Huddersfield.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Tom
Iorpenda (Midfielder), 19 years old Iorpenda made his debut against Manchester
City in the FA Cup. The young midfielder has been part of the first team’s
pre-season and could get more opportunities this season.
Summary: Huddersfield had problems at both ends of
the pitch last season, only Rotherham conceded more, whilst only 4 teams scored
less, so it was no surprise they were relegated. Goals were such a problem in
fact that Defender Michal Helik ended the season as their top scorer.
With only 4 incomings so far, only troubled Reading have
signed less players at the moment. However the 4 signed so far all look like
good acquisitions, but given they have a new manager and new system, expect
Huddersfield to add more before the end of the window.
Defensively Michael Duff teams are normally pretty well
organised, and the additions of Sorensen, Miller and Kane should help that. The
question will be if they can add goals, will Healey rediscover his form? If not
Huddersfield will need to add recruits if they’re to push the other promotion contenders.
Manager: Richie Wellens. Wellens has spent his
managerial career in League One and League Two, with one relegation from League
One, and Two promotions from League Two. His spell at Orient is by far the
longest he has spent at a club. Overall win percentage: 39.9%
3 players to watch: Charlie Kelman, Kelman helped
Orient get promotion 2 years ago, and is back on loan. Orient lacked goals last
season and Kelman will be hoping to help them in front of goal. George Moncur,
an important player in the middle of the pitch. With no Idris El Mizouni this
season Moncur could become even more important, especially using his experience
to help the likes of Lewis Warrington. Jordan Brown, no one made more
than the 48 appearances for Orient last season, and he will be key to Orient
having another good season.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Zech
Obiero (Midfielder), having recently signed a new 2 year contract 19 year old Obiero
looks to be one of Orient’s best young talents.
Summary: After a very creditable top half finish as a
newly promoted side Orient will be looking to avoid 2nd season
syndrome. Unfortunately for them they lost Ruel Sotiriou to Bristol Rovers, who
was their top scorer and no one else hit double figures in the league. They
also lost loan player Shaqai Forde who was their second top scorer.
They need the likes of Kelman to replace those goals, as
well as some more from the midfield and players like Perkins, Jaiyesimi and
Brown. Orient certainly have experienced and should be hard to beat, but they
will need to find goals if they’re to match last season’s performance.
Question marks on who's going to score goals seems to be a theme across the league it seems.
Being the first year I've properly looked at the window in depth in the other thread it will be interesting to see how many of the later loan players signed are attacking players, and whether that's normal.
There seems to be quite a few defenders, midfielders and a couple of keepers on loan so far but not many strikers. Could well be the reason why a few teams right now seem light up top.
Manager: Michael Skubala. Skubala had 3 games in
caretaker charge of Leeds in February 2023, but his first permanent managerial
role is at Lincoln, where he took over in November 2023. Overall win
percentage: 41.18%
Players in: Conor McGrandles - Charlton (Undisclosed),
Jamie Pardington - Cheltenham (Free), Tom Bayliss - Shrewsbury (Free), JJ
McKiernan - Morecambe (Tribunal Fee), Rob Street - Cheltenham (Undisclosed), Tedndayi
Darikwa - Apollon Limasoll (Free), Dom Jefferies - Gillingham (Undisclosed), Tom
Hamer - Burton (Undisclosed), George Wickens - Fulham (Undisclosed), Zach
Jeacock - Birmingham (Free)
3 players to watch: George Wickens, after losing Lukas
Jensen one of the best keepers in the division, Lincoln chose to bring in 22
year old Wickens from Fulham. The former England under 18 international only
has 1 full season as a number 1 at Wealdstone in 2021/22. However he did make 13
league appearances for Ross County last season in the Scottish top flight. Ethan
Erhahon, has been a key player for the Imps since joining from St Mirren.
The midfielder is neat and tidy on the ball and flourished after the arrival of
Skubala. Ben House, in 2022/23 House was Lincoln’s top scorer,
unfortunately for him last season he struggled with just 2 goals in 22 games. Can
House rediscover his form? They lost Danny Mandroiu, and loan player Joe Taylor
their top 2 scorers from last season, so will be looking to the likes of House
to step up.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Jovon
Makama (Striker), the 20 year old is Lincoln’s top scorer in pre-season, and
could be on for a breakout season. He got 3 in 40 last season but expect him to
do better this season.
Summary: Lincoln’s success last season was built on a
solid defence, only Derby conceded less than them. They lost Goalkeeper Jensen
and wingback Sorensen, as well as loan player Alex Mitchell. Tendayi Darikwa
and Tom Hamer both have plenty of experience and Lincoln should be solid
defensively again.
Lincoln have added depth to the midfield with the arrival of
McKiernan, Jefferies, Bayliss and McGrandles. Combined with the likes of
Erhahon Lincoln have good depth in the middle of the pitch with good experience.
Although Lincoln have lost their top 2 scorers from last
season, they have the promising Makama, House their top scorer from the season
before, and they’ve added Rob Street. Although they almost certainly won’t end
the season as top scorers, expect Skubala’s side to win a number of games by
the odd goal.
Manager: Nigel Clough. With almost 1,500 games as a
manager Clough is one of the most experienced managers in the league. He also
stays at clubs for a while with at least 100 games at each of the 5 teams he’s
managed. Overall win percentage: 41.12%
Players in: Lee Gregory - Sheffield Wednesday (Free),
Keanu Baccus - St Mirren (Free), Frazer Blake-Tracy - Swindon (Free), Deji
Oshilaja - Burton (Free), Ben Quinn - Celtic (Free), Will Evans - Newport
(Undisclosed)
3 players to watch: Davis Keillor-Dunn, there are
rumours Keillor-Dunn could be on his way, but if he stays he will be a key
player for the Stags. Their top scorer from last season, Keillor-Dunn scored 22
in 45 league appearances. Louis Reed, former England under 20
international Reed, was almost an ever present for Mansfield last season. The Midfielder
may not get the headlines of some of the other midfielders but is a solid player
in the middle with plenty of League One experience. Will Evans, Evans
had a brilliant season last year for Newport and the Striker has been recruited
to help bolster the Mansfield strike force. If he can keep up his form from
last season, in Cloughs attacking side he should score a number of goals.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Ben
Quinn (Striker), 3 goals in 3 pre-season games was enough to convince Mansfield
to sign the former Celtic Academy player. With the range of options available
don’t expect the 19 year old to make an immediate impact, but as the season
goes on, he could start to feature more.
Summary: Clough’s side finished last season in League
Two with the second most goals and best defence as they secured automatic
promotion. With the likes of Keillor-Dunn, Evans and veterans Jordan Bowery,
Lucas Akins and Lee Gregory Mansfield should score enough goals to give them a
decent chance of survival.
Town have plenty of experience and the arrival of Deji
Oshilaja, alongside current players Stephen Quinn and George Maris and they should surprise
a few. Clough also knows League One well and his vast experience shouldn’t be
taken for granted.
The only question could be the defence now it will be up
against better opponents. There hasn’t been a lot of additions so far and that
may be where Mansfield look to add quality before the end of the window.
Manager: Jon Brady. After 6 ½ years as manager of
Brackley Brady departed. He then joined Northampton as a coach, but didn’t
become manager until 5 years later. He has now been in charge for 3 ½ years and
led them to promotion the season before last. Overall win percentage: 41.6%
Players in: James Wilson - Port Vale (Free), Nik
Tzanev - AFC Wimbledon (Free), Callum Morton - Salford (Loan), Cameron McGeehan
- Colchester (Free), Jack Baldwin - Ross County (Undisclosed), Tom Eaves -
Rotherham (Free), Matt Dibley-Dias - Fulham (Loan), Liam McCarron - Stoke
(Undisclosed)
Key Players Out: Shaun McWilliams – Rotherham, Louis
Appere – Stevenage, Sam Sherring – MK Dons
3 players to watch: Cameron McGeehan, after 10 goals
from Midfield for a struggling Colchester team, McGeehan earned himself a move
up a division. Northampton will be looking for McGeehan to help replace the 5
goals Marc Leonard bagged last year. Sam Hoskins, Northampton’s top
scorer is a Cobblers legend. After 9 years at the club Hoskins is still going
strong, with double figures for goals in the last 3 seasons. Town will be
relying on him to score regularly again this season. Jon Guthrie, a key part of Northampton’s
defence over the past 3 years Guthrie is a good organiser, and physical leader.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Josh
Tomlinson (Defender), the youngest player to ever play for Northampton, when he
was just 15 years old. Now 18 he has spent time away on loan over the past
couple of seasons. However he was involved with the first teams pre-season, so
could see more first team action this year.
Summary: After outperforming expectations last season
the pressure will be on the Cobblers to repeat the trick. The biggest loss for
them could be loan player Marc Leonard. With he and Midfield partner Shaun
McWilliams both missing from the team this season the pressure will be on the
likes of Dibley-Dias and McGeehan to replace them.
Although the midfield with the likes of McGeehan and Hoskins
should score quite a few goals, Northampton’s strikers don’t inspire
confidence. Louis Appere and Tyreece Simpson are gone. In their place are James
Wilson, Tom Eaves and Callum Morton. Between the 3 of them they’ve scored just
19 league goals in 163 appearances over the past 2 years.
In defence experience Jack Baldwin has arrived while Nik
Tzanev will look to push Lee Burge in goal. Brady’s side are normally pretty
solid at the back, but will the losses in the centre of midfield upset their
balance?
Manager: Darren Ferguson. Ferguson has had 6 spells
as a manager, 4 of them with Peterborough, with less than a year at Preston,
and almost 3 years at Doncaster as well. In his time as a Manger though
Ferguson has managed 5 promotions and 2 EFL Trophy wins. Overall win
percentage: 42.86%
Players in: Abraham Odoh - Harrogate (Undisclosed), David
Kamara - Welling (Undisclosed), Chris Conn-Clarke - Altrincham (Undisclosed), George
Nevett - Rochdale (Undisclosed), Rio Adebisi - Crewe (Undisclosed), Cian Hayes
- Fleetwood (Undisclosed), Jack Sparkes - Portsmouth (Undisclosed), Oscar
Wallin - Degerfors (Undisclosed), Sam Curtis - Sheffield United (Loan), Mahmadou
Susoho - Manchester City (Loan)
Key Players Out: Harrison Burrows – Sheffield United,
Ronnie Edwards – Southampton, Josh Knight – Hannover, Jonson Clarke-Harris -
Rotherham
3 players to watch: Kwame Poku, Poku had a very good
season last year and with Ephron Mason Clark’s loan finished he will be even
more key to Peterborough’s success. With a combined 18 goals and assists in the
league last season he will be one of Posh’s biggest threats. Archie Collins,
one of the signings of the season last year Collins fitted into Peterborough’s
style perfectly following his move from Exeter. Although only 24 he has over
250 league appearances in his career and is therefore one of their most experienced
players. That experience and leadership in the middle of the pitch will be key
if Peterborough are to challenge the top 6 again. Rio Adebisi/Jack Sparkes,
Slightly cheating here but Harrison Burrows was so good for Peterborough (20 combined
goals and assists last season) that I’ve picked both his replacements. Adebisi
was signed before Burrows had even left as they knew he was going, however he
picked up an injury ruling him out for a few months so they went and signed
Sparkes. Burrows contribution will be missed and although Adebisi and Sparkes
probably won’t match that, how close they get could play a big part in how high
Posh finish.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Emmanuel
Fernandez (Defender), signed from Ramsgate in 2021 Fernandez might be the next
former non-league player turned star at Peterborough. The departure of Ronnie
Edwards has opened up a spot in central defence and 22 year old Fernandez has
been playing there in pre-season. Expect him to start the season and turn into
a name you will have heard about by the end of the year.
Summary: Peterborough have been doing Peterborough
things in the transfer window. The signing of arguably the best young player
last season in non-league Conn-Clarke surprised absolutely no one, and he’s
already impressing in pre-season. Odoh, Kamara, Nevett and Adebisi all very
much fit their transfer policy as well.
They have though lost a lot of key players and the question
will be over whether the new singings can adequately replace the departures.
Ferguson’s sides have never been renowned for being that defensively solid due
to the way he gets his team to play. Despite finishing 4th last
season, 12 teams conceded the same or fewer goals. In fact relegated Cheltenham
only conceded 4 more. On the flip side though they score plenty, and were the
divisions top scorers.
Unlike some teams who will go unmentioned Peterborough seem
to get the most out of Manchester City loanees, last season it was Joel
Katongo, this season they’re hoping it’s Mahmadou Susoho.
Although goals shouldn’t be a problem the loss of key
players like Edwards, Burrows and Knight have left holes in the team. If Adebisi,
Sparkes, Fernandez, Wallin and Curtis are adequate replacements they will be in
the mix for at least the playoffs again. If not, well Peterborough games should
at least have plenty of goals.
Manager: Ruben Selles. Selles first managerial role
was at Southampton, where after replacing Nathan Jones led the Saints to
relegation after just 2 wins in 17. After leaving Southampton he quickly took
over Reading and guided them to safety last season, despite a points deduction.
Overall win percentage: 31.51%
Players in: N/A
Key Players Out: Clinton Mola – Bristol Rovers
3 players to watch: Lewis Wing, signed from Wycombe last
season Wing had an immediate impact, no one managed more than the combined 18
goals and assists he contributed. With plenty of experience he will look to
help a relatively young Reading side. Harvey Knibbs, another player
signed last summer, Knibbs had a good season, missing just 1 league game and
scoring 11 goals. Reading will be looking for more though if they’re to
improve. Tyler Bindon, only 19 years of age but with 44 appearances last
season Bindon is already an important part of the defence at Reading. The New
Zealand international should only improve this season.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Kelvin
Abrefa (Defender), the 20 year old Defender made 13 appearances last season,
and has been with the first team in pre-season this summer. If Reading don’t
make many defensive acquisitions before the end of the window his playing time
should only increase.
Summary: In terms of incoming transfer activity the
summary is pretty quick. There hasn’t been any. In terms of outgoings though
they haven’t actually lost that much either. Clinton Mola is the biggest departure
with Paul Mukairu being the only loan player to make any significant impact.
All the talk has been on the off field developments with
former Wycombe Owner Rob Couhig looking like he might be the man about to takeover
the club. For Reading that can’t come soon enough with them needing to add
recruits if they want to push for the top half. Even without their points
deduction Reading would only have moved up 2 places to 15th last
year.
They’re a relatively young side and will need their
experienced players to improve on last season’s efforts. Although they scored
quite a few goals, only 3 teams conceded more. Without recruits to the defence
Reading could again struggle to keep many clean sheets, and struggle to
threaten the top half of the table.
Manager: Steve Evans. Now in his second spell at
Rotherham Evans has multiple promotions in his career, including 2 at the
Millers. Evans started his managerial career at Gedney Hill in the Peterborough
League. He worked his way up through non-league before winning promotion to the
football league with Boston. Overall win percentage: 42.4%* (*Only
includes from Boston)
Players in: Jonson Clarke-Harris - Peterborough
(Free), Joe Rafferty - Portsmouth (Free), Shaun McWilliams - Northampton (Free),
Reece James - Sheffield Wednesday (Free), Sean Raggett - Portsmouth (Free), Joe
Powell - Burton (Free), Liam Kelly - Coventry (Free), Zak Jules - Exeter (Free),
Alex MacDonald - Stevenage (Free), Cameron Dawson - Sheffield Wednesday (Free),
Joseph Hungbo - Nurnberg (Loan), Esapa Osong - Nottingham Forest (Loan), Jack
Holmes - Stamford (Undisclosed)
Key Players Out: Viktor Johansson – Stoke, Sam Clucas
– Unattached, Cafu - Unattached
3 players to watch: Zak Jules, a really good
acquisition, only spent one season at Exeter, but has been one of the better
centre-backs in League One for the last 2 seasons. Big and physical and will
suit Steve Evans style of play. Jonson Clarke-Harris, Rotherham had to
add goals to their side and Clarke-Harris should provide those. He has at least
13 goals in each of his last 5 seasons at League One Level. Cameron Dawson,
after more than a decade at Sheffield Wednesday, Dawson made the move across
Yorkshire to Rotherham. After selling Goalkeeper Johansson, one of Rotherham’s
better performers last season Dawson will be looking to establish himself as
number one, in a team that should be defensively solid and won’t be expecting
to concede many goals.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Ben
Hatton (Forward), the 18 year old made his debut in April, and has 3 senior
appearances to his name. Will probably not be involved too much early on but
might get game time as the season progresses, if he’s not sent out on loan.
Summary: Rotherham have had a big turnover in players
out and in this summer. The signings they’ve made mainly being free’s and
loans. However there is a regular theme with most of their signings, solid, no
nonsense, experienced players.
It’s clear Rotherham and Evans had a game plan when it came
to signings and there are a number of promotions also across the players they’ve
signed.
Rotherham should be very defensively solid and hard to beat,
the experience they’ve signed along with the quality in the middle of the pitch
should mean they’re a big threat for promotion. Add in the goals of
Clarke-Harris, and although Rotherham games might not be the most exciting,
expect the Millers to be effective and win a lot of games.
Manager: Paul Hurst. After almost leading Shrewsbury
to promotion from League One, Hurst left to join Ipswich. However that spell
only lasted 15 games with just 1 win. Since then mixed spells at Scunthorpe and
Grimsby followed before returning to Shrewsbury in January. 4 wins in 18 was
just about enough to guide the Shrews to safety. Overall win percentage: 45.1%
Players in: George Lloyd - Cheltenham (Free), Toto
Nsiala - Burton (Free), Harrison Biggins - Doncaster (Free), Toby Savin - Accrington
(Undisclosed), Tommi O'Reilly - Aston Villa (Loan), Luca Hoole - Bristol Rovers
(Undisclosed), John Marquis - Bristol Rovers (Free), Joshua Kayode - Rotherham
(Loan), Joe Young - Wolves (Free), Jordan Rossiter - Bristol Rovers (Free), Josh
Feeney - Aston Villa (Loan)
Key Players Out: Tom Bayliss – Lincoln, Daniel Udoh –
Wycombe, Marko Marosi – Unattached, Jason Sraha - Burton
3 players to watch: Tom Bloxham, only 20 years old
but Shrewsbury will be looking for Bloxham to improve on last seasons return of
2 goals. The team need to add goals across the team and will be hoping Bloxham
in particular can have a breakthrough season. Toto Nsiala, the Shrews
have lost a lot of experience at the back and Nsiala certainly provides that.
Manager Paul Hurst also loves him, this is the 4th time he’s played for him in
his career. Toby Savin, signed from Accrington Goalkeeper Savin has big
gloves to fill after replacing Marosi. Given Shrewsbury’s issues at the other
end Savin will need to have a good season to keep Shrewsbury in games.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on:
Summary: There has been some concern about the summer
window so far from Shrews fan, and criticism for some of the people financing
and running the club. Given Shrewsbury only finished 4 points above the drop
last season, and the strength of 3 of the sides coming up that is
understandable.
The Shrews were the lowest scorers in the division last
season managing just 35 goals in their 46 games. When you consider top scorer Daniel
Udoh left to join Wycombe, they lost long time number one Goalkeeper Marko
Marosi, centre backs Chey Dunkley and Jason Sraha and important Midfielder Tom
Bayliss and you can understand why Shrewsbury are tipped to struggle.
The biggest concern is up front for Shrewsbury after Udoh’s
departure. Bloxham has shown promise, the other 2 forwards signed are George
Lloyd and Joshua Kayode, who are both 24 but have never been prolific in their
careers. Anything outside of the bottom four will be a positive season for
Shrewsbury.
Manager: Alex Revell. Now in his second spell in
charge at Stevenage, the only team he’s managed. His first spell almost led to
them being relegated out of the football league until Macclesfield got a points
deduction. Revell though only lasted until November the following season. He
took over from Steve Evans for the final 2 games of last season. Overall win
percentage: 26.6%
Players in: Louis Appere - Northampton (Free), Dan
Kemp - MK Dons (Free), Lewis Freestone - Cheltenham (Undisclosed), Daniel
Phillips - St Johnstone (Free), Tyrece Simpson - Huddersfield (Undisclosed), Murphy
Cooper - QPR (Loan), Charlie Goode - Brentford (Free)
Key Players Out: Terence Vancooten – Burton, Kane
Hemmings – Crewe, Alex MacDonald - Rotherham
3 players to watch: Carl Piergianni, one of the best
central defenders in the league last Piergianni is a key part of Stevenage’s
defence and a big reason why their defence was so good. Stevenage need the 32
year old to maintain his form. Jamie Reid, after 10 goals in the
promotion campaign for Stevenage the year before last he took his game to
another level last season bagging 18 goals. Will the switch in Manager impact
Reid or can he continue his good form? Dan Kemp, one of Stevenage’s new
signings Kemp had a good half season on loan at Swindon to earn this move. If
he can continue scoring it will help take the pressure off Reid to provide most
of the goals.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: David
Hicks (Midfielder), young Midfielder that’s spent some time out on loan. I
would expect him to probably go out on loan again. If not he may get some time
in cup competitions.
Summary: After overachieving last season Stevenage
now without Steve Evans will be hoping they can maintain that performance.
Their success was built on their defence with just 3 teams conceding less.
Charlie Goode and Lewis Freestone should be a decent
acquisitions and replacement for Vancooten. Whilst the additions of Kemp,
Simpson and Appere give them goals and alternative options to Reid.
Stevenage haven’t lost a great deal and whilst most of their
signings are not headline grabbers they look like smart business. Given the
strength in League One this year they may drop down a bit lower in the table
than last season, but should be at least mid-table.
Manager: Dave Challinor. After starting off at Colwyn
Bay Challinor has spent the majority of his managerial career in non-league.
After 2 promotions with Colwyn, he left to take over at Fylde, who he guided to
3 promotions, he then managed one at Hartlepool, before 2 with current team
Stockport. Overall win percentage: 53.4%
Players in: Jay Mingi - Colchester (Undisclosed), Jayden
Fevrier - Colchester (Undisclosed), Jack Diamond - Sunderland (Free), Callum
Connolly - Blackpool (Free), Lewis Bate - Leeds (Free), Corey Addai - Crawley
(Undisclosed), Sam Hughes - Burton (Free), Lewis Fiorini - Manchester City
(Undisclosed), Michael Mellon - Burnley (Loan), Tayo Adaramola - Crystal
Palace (Loan), Louie Barry - Aston Villa (Loan)
Key Players Out: Antoni Sarcevic – Bradford, Ryan
Croasdale – Port Vale, Akil Wright – Ross County, Paddy Madden - Chesterfield
3 players to watch: Isaac Olaofe, Olaofe came though
at Millwall, but the 24 year old didn’t have his breakthrough year until last
season, when he grabbed 20 league goals for high scoring Stockport. They have
plenty of options up front but if Olaofe keeps up last seasons form he will be
a handful in League One. Lewis Bate, like Olaofe is another south
Londoner, was signed at one point by Leeds for £1.5m. That move didn’t really
work out for him, but after a promising second half of last season on loan at
MK Dons he earned this permanent move. Could be one of the best ball playing
Midfielders in the League if he starts living up to his potential. Sam
Hughes, after over 100 appearances for Burton Hughes made the move to
Stockport. The centre back has plenty of League One experience and should be a
solid signing for Challinor’s side.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Tayo
Adaramola (Defender), promising 20 year old left back. He played 14 games in
the Belgian top flight last season, but is yet to make an impact in English
football. Should see plenty of game time this season.
Summary: Stockport last season were the best side in
the division on their way to becoming Champions. They scored the most goals and
had the second best defence in the league. Since then they have recruited very
well. They’ve added a mixture of experience and youth, with some highly rated
youngsters and players that had good seasons in League Two.
Although Stockport might have lost last season’s second top
scorer Paddy Madden, they still have top scorer Isaac Olaofe and Kyle Wootton,
who has been their top scorer through pre-season. Louie Barry is also back on
loan, and promising young forward Michael Mellon who got 13 in 22 in League Two
last season. Stockport should have more than enough firepower to compete.
Defensively the additions of one of League Two’s best
Goalkeepers last season Corey Addai, and the experience Hughes are upgrades.
Whilst promising youngster Adaramola should be a big help at left back.
This Stockport team is better than the 4 teams that got
promotion the season before last. They showed what can happen when you have
momentum, a good manager, and recruit well. Stockport have recruited even
better than they did, if Stockport are in the top half at the end of the season
no one should be surprised.
Manager: Shaun Maloney. Maloney’s first managerial
role was at Hibernian but lasted just 19 games. He took over at Wigan in
January 2023 but was unable to stop them being relegated. Overall win
percentage: 37%.
Players in: Michael Olakigbe - Brentford (Loan), Calvin
Ramsay - Liverpool (Loan), Dion Rankine - Chelsea (Free), Andy Lonergan -
Everton (Free), Will Aimson - Exeter (Undisclosed), Tyrece Francois - Fulham
(Free), Toby Sibbick - Hearts (Undisclosed), Joe Hugill - Manchester United
(Loan), Silko Thomas - Leicester (Loan), Luke Chambers - Liverpool (Loan)
Key Players Out: Josh Magennis – Exeter, Sean Clare –
Leyton Orient, Stephen Humphrys – Unattached
3 players to watch: Joe Hugill, Signed to replace the
more experienced Magennis Wigan need Hugill to live up to his early potential.
Only 20 so with time on his side but after just 1 goal in 12 games for Burton,
Wigan will need better if they want to push for the playoffs. Charlie Hughes,
Also 20 Hughes became a key part of Wigan’s defence last season. Rumours he
could move on, but the Latics will be hoping he stays, and keeps on improving. Thelo
Aasgaard, only 22 but with over 100 league appearances already. Aasgaard’s
potential and talent has not been questioned, but his consistency has. If he
can improve that and add a few more goals and assists to his game he could be
one of the best players in the division.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Dion
Rankine (Midfielder), the 21 year old signed on a free from Chelsea earlier in
the summer. He had a promising season on loan at Exeter last season, and should
be a good addition in the Midfield.
Summary: If Wigan hadn’t of had a points deduction
they would have been just 6 points off the playoffs last season. This summer
they have lost a number experienced players and generally gone for younger
players. They have also utilised the loan market more than anyone else with 5
loan players in already.
Defensively Wigan should be pretty solid with promising
Goalkeeper Sam Tickle, new recruits Toby Sibbick and Will Aimson at the heart
of defence, alongside Charlie Hughes who for now is still at Wigan, and Calvin
Ramsay on loan from Liverpool.
In Midfield Tyreece Francois has been signed but at 24 he
only has 28 league appearances in his career, however 14 of those were in the
Danish top flight last season. They do also still have Babajide Adeeko and
Matthew Smith, as well as Rankine. Whilst the inconsistent Thelo Aasgaard can
provide goals and assists.
Up front however is where they lack experience, with 3 20
year old Strikers, Hugill, Chris Sze and Josh Stones. Between those 3 they only
have 2 league goals in the football league. If Wigan are going to struggle
anywhere that is where they will have problems.
Manager: Phil Parkinson. Parkinson started his
managerial career at Colchester who he managed to guide to promotion in his
final season in charge. He then took over at Hull but lasted less than 6
months. After a spell at Charlton where he was relegated from the Championship
he was sacked after just over 2 years. He managed another promotion at Bradford
as well as a league cup final. He also managed a promotion with Bolton. After a
spell at Sunderland he then took over at Wrexham, where he has been able to
guide them to 2 promotions in 3 seasons. Overall win percentage: 41.28%
Players in: Arthur Okonkwo - Arsenal (Free), Lewis
Brunt - Leicester (Undisclosed), George Dobson - Charlton (Free), Sebastian
Revan - Aston Villa (Undisclosed), Callum Burton - Plymouth (Free), Dan Scarr -
Plymouth (Undisclosed), Ollie Rathbone - Rotherham
Key Players Out: Aaron Hayden – Carlisle, Luke Young
– Cheltenham, Ben Tozer – Forest Green
3 players to watch: Paul Mullin, last time Mullin got
promoted to League One he decided to leave and head to non-league football.
This time he’s staying, although he will miss the start of the season injured. For
all his goals recently he’s only ever played 20 games at this level, and scored
just 3 goals. He and Wrexham will be hoping he can improve on that this season.
Elliot Lee, another player that dropped from League One to non-league,
Lee was in the team of the season last year. Can he maintain the form he showed
last season? Lewis Brunt, was very good for last year’s League Two
rivals Mansfield. Wrexham decided to snap him up, and he should be a good
player in central defence.
Player you might
not have heard of to keep an eye on: Harry Dean (Defender), the 18 year old
has recently signed his first professional contract, and has been a bit part
player in pre-season. Game time probably depends on how many recruits Wrexham
bring in, but may feature in the cups.
Summary: Team Hollywood were expected to splash the
cash, however so far recruitment for the league’s Welsh side has been slow. Just
until I was about to post this, then they went and broke their club record on
Ollie Rathbone.
At the back Wrexham should be pretty solid, they’ve got
Goalkeeper, Okonkwo back permanently this time. Brunt, Revan and Scarr should
all be decent. There’s some bloke called Dobson in the middle with Rathbone,
and Lee.
The question for now would be in the final third. When will Mullin
be back, and who will score while he’s out. Who will also create the chances?
Can wind up merchant James McClean still cut it at League One level despite his
ageing legs. If Wrexham are going to start splashing the cash between now and
the end of the window attack minded players should be top of the list.
Manager: Matt
Bloomfield. Bloomfield’s managerial career started at Colchester but lasted
just 28 games before heading back to Wycombe in February 2023 where he played
for 19 years. Overall win percentage: 38.6%
Players in: Alex Hartridge - Exeter (Free), Nathan
Bishop - Sunderland (Loan), Tyreeq Bakinson - Sheffield Wednesday (Free), Daniel
Harvie - MK Dons (Undisclosed), Daniel Udoh - Shrewsbury (Free)
Key Players Out: Max Stryjek – Jagiellonia, Chris
Forino – Bolton
3 players to watch: Luke Leahy, had a very good
season after joining from Shrewsbury the previous season with 11 goals and 7
assists from Midfield. Wycombe will need more of the same if they’re to
maintain last seasons top half finish. Daniel Udoh, after 12 goals in 46
games last season for Shrewsbury, he’s another that has now made the move to
Wycombe. Udoh is physical, strong and should suit Bloomfield’s style of play. Garath
McCleary, it feels like McCleary has been playing for 20 years, and that’s
because he has. Still going strong at 37, McCleary played in 39 games and
scored 6 goals last season, can he continue performing to such a high level for
another year?
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Taylor
Clark (Midfielder), 19 year old Clark made his debut in the EFL Trophy last
season before playing 20 games on loan in the National League South. He should
see more action in the cups at least this season.
Summary: Wycombe have been taken over by a new
Billionaire owner, however that is yet to be seen in terms of incomings with
only one transfer fee paid so far. At the start of last season, there were doubts
from Wycombe’s fans about Bloomfield however most of that had gone by the end
when he got them to a creditable 10th place. Considering only 4
teams had a lower average attendance and 2 of those were relegated, Wycombe
punched well above their size.
As well as a quiet recruitment so far, they have also lost
key players like Chris Forino, and some good loan players like Dale Taylor and
Freddie Potts. Nathan Bishop has come in to compete for the number one Goalkeeper
role. Hartridge and Harvie are solid if unspectacular additions to the defence,
whilst Udoh should get some goals.
They probably haven’t done enough yet in the window to think
about improving on last season but they should have enough to keep them out of
the bottom 4.
Comments
A lot of pressure on Danilo Orsi to step up from League 2 and score the bulk of their goals too.
Cambridge United
Last Season: 18th
Manager: Garry Monk. After a decent spell in charge of Swansea, Monk bounced around a bit with little success. After 3 ½ years out of work Monk finally returned to management at Cambridge in March. 2 wins from his 11 games in charge just about keeping them up. Overall win percentage: 36.62%.
Players in: Kelland Watts - Newcastle (Free), James Gibbons - Bristol Rovers (Free), Shayne Lavery - Blackpool (Free), Vicente Reyes - Norwich (Loan), Ryan Loft - Port Vale (Undisclosed), Taylor Richards - QPR (Loan), Gary Gardner - Birmingham (Free), Korey Smith - Derby (Free)
Key Players Out: Will Mannion – Charlton, Harrison Dunk – Unattached, Lyle Taylor – Colchester, Ryan Bennett - Unattached
3 players to watch: Taylor Richards, back in 2020/21 Richards was a hot prospect, he scored 11 in 48 games for League One Doncaster and was wanted by a host of Championship clubs. 3 seasons, 27 games and 0 goals later and Richards needs to rebuild his reputation. Cambridge also need goals, if Richards can add some from Midfield it will significantly improve their chances of survival. Shayne Lavery, speaking of goals, Lavery needs to provide them. The current list of Strikers for Cambridge is not inspiring, Lavery has shown flashes in the past but needs to stay injury free and be more consistent. Liam Bennett, had a breakthrough year last season and with Cambridge playing a back 3 this season he will be crucial at right wing-back. He was Cambridge’s player of the season last year and at just 22 has the potential to get better. Will need to try and create down the right hand side to supply opportunities for Cambridge’s front players.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Brandon Njoku (Striker), has spent most of his time out on loan, including a 13 goals in 21 games spell at St Ives last season. He also made 3 appearances for Cambridge, and has been part of this summer’s pre-season with the first team. Only 19, and with a lack of experience, but if Cambridge’s forwards struggle he could get a chance
Summary: Cambridge lost a lot of goals, not just through permanent departures, but also loan players like Gassan Ahadme, so signing attacking players was crucial. Lavery and Loft are both strikers, Lavery has shown he can score in the past, though his career has been impacted by consistently picking up injuries, the same can’t really be said for Loft. He managed just 2 in 38 games last season at first Bristol Rovers, then Port Vale.
Richards will need to get back to form and add goals from Midfield, as well as the likes of Elias Kachunga chipping in with a few more. In the centre of Midfield they’ve added experience with Gary Gardner and Korey Smith, whilst Kelland Watts could be decent at centre back. Vicente Reyes has been signed to replace Mannion in goal, but only has 16 football league appearances to his name, all in League Two with Forest Green.
Goals look like they’re going to be a problem for Cambridge, and after last years struggles, the strength of the newly promoted sides, and Monk not exactly setting the world on fire as new manager, it looks like a hard season ahead for Cambridge.
Crawley
Last Season: 7th in League Two (Promoted)
Manager: Scott Lindsey. Although originally from Walsall Lindsey spent a large part of his playing career in Kent, playing for numerous non-league sides in the area. His first managerial role also came in the county as boss at Chatham Town. After Ben Garner left Swindon to join Charlton Lindsey stepped up from assistant to become Manager, before leaving for Crawley who he guided to promotion last season. Overall win percentage: 39.8%.* (*Only includes Swindon and Crawley)
Players in: Antony Papadopoulos - Welling (Free), Charlie Barker - Wealdstone (Undisclosed), Josh Flint - FC Volendam (Free), Rushian Hepburn-Murphy - Swindon (Free), Scott Malone - Gillingham (Undisclosed), Toby Mullarkey - Grimsby (Undisclosed), Gavin Holohan - Grimsby (Free), Michael Dacosta Gonzalez - Bournemouth (Loan), JJ Wollacott - Hibernian (Undisclosed), Muhammadu Faal - Maidstone (Free), Max Anderson - Dundee (Undisclosed), Junior Quitirna - Fleetwood (Undisclosed), Cameron Bragg - Southampton (Loan)
Key Players Out: Danilo Orsi – Burton, Klaidi Lolos – Bolton, Corey Addai – Stockport, Liam Kelly – MK Dons, Will Wright – Swindon
3 players to watch: Ronan Darcy, One of the few key players remaining from last season Darcy had a good season with 5 goals and 6 assists in the League. He will need that kind of output again if not better to help Crawley this season. Rushian Hepburn-Murphy, Hepburn-Murphy was a highly rated prospect, the youngest player to play for Aston Villa in the Premier League. The Striker was highly regarded and represented England all the way up to under 20 level. Unfortunately 10 years later things haven’t exactly worked out. His last spell before Crawley was with Swindon where he scored 12 times in 52 games. He needs to suddenly turn all that promise into goals if Crawley are to have any chance of staying up. Josh Flint, someone needs to hold the defence together and it looks like Flint could be a key part in that. Signed from the Eredivisie Flint has played at a higher level than most of his teammates and although he doesn’t have a wealth of experience, he is at least more used to coming up against better players which should help him out.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Max Anderson (Midfielder), with plenty of experience in the top 2 flights of Scottish Football Anderson should be one of Crawley’s better acquisitions. As a defensive central Midfielder he should be busy and have lots of opportunities to prove his worth.
Summary: Crawley have lost a lot of key players since being promoted. It could be argued they’re actually weaker than the team that got promoted, and this wasn’t a team that cruised to promotion. They actually finished closer in terms of points to Grimsby who finished in 21st place than Stockport who were the Champions.
Most of their incomings have never played at League One level with the majority of their recruits being signed from non-league and League Two. However they were one of the favourites for relegation last season and got promoted. Can they beat the odds again?
Behind the scenes the club seems to change every summer, with Chairman Preston Johnson again taking more of a hands on role. Their have been rumours of financial problems and the transfer activity this summer has only increased that speculation.
After losing the vast majority of their Wembley starting 11 Crawley are rebuilding. Defensively Crawley look vulnerable, they conceded 67 goals in the league and new Goalkeeper JJ Wollacott should be kept busy.
In attack they’ve lost Klaidi Lolos and Danilo Orsi, they need Hepburn-Murphy, Darcy and others like Dacosta Gonzalez to have big seasons, otherwise it will be a long hard season. There’s a reason Crawley are favourites for the drop again, and 20th or above would be a great season for them.
Exeter
Last Season: 13th
Manager: Gary Caldwell. Caldwell started his managerial career at Wigan, but was unable to save them from relegation. However they got promoted from League One at the first attempt, before being sacked during the following season. He then went to Chesterfield where he was also relegated before being sacked early the next season. After a spell in Scotland with Partick Caldwell was then appointed Exeter Manager in October 2022. During that first season they finished 14th, whilst improving one place last season to 13th. Overall win percentage: 34.1%
Players in: Jack McMillan - Partick (Free), Josh Magennis - Wigan (Free), Jay Bird - Arbroath (Free), Ryan Woods - Hull (Free), Ed Francis - Gateshead (Undisclosed), Joe Whitworth - Crystal Palace (Loan), Johnly Yfeko - Rangers (Loan), Frankie Phillips - Paulton Rovers (Undisclosed), Tristan Crama - Brentford (Loan)
Key Players Out: Zak Jules – Rotherham, Will Aimson – Wigan, Alex Hartridge - Wycombe
3 players to watch: Reece Cole, Cole had an impressive breakout season last year after spending the majority of the past 6 years in non-league. His goals from Midfield helped a blunt Exeter attack in the end comfortably avoid relegation. Tristan Crama, after making 34 appearances last season for Bristol Rovers Crama is back in League One. With the departures at centre back Crama should be a regular at the heart of the Exeter defence. Sonny Cox, he may only be 19 but Cox ended last season as joint top scorer for the Grecians. Exeter need to score more this season, can Cox develop this season and fire in even more goals?
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Jake Richards (Midfielder), only 16 years of age, but already has a number of first team appearances. Has been part of pre-season with the Exeter first team, and should play quite a bit as the season progresses.
Summary: Exeter’s biggest turnover has been at Centre-back with Aimson, Hartridge and Jules all leaving to join other League One sides. However with the arrival of Yfeko and Crama on loan they moved quickly to replace them. That does however leave them with a lot less experience in the centre of defence.
The biggest problem last season however for Exeter was scoring. Only 6 teams in League One scored less than the 46 goals they managed. They have looked to solve that problem by signing Josh Magennis from Wigan and Jay Bird from Arbroath. Neither of them have ever been prolific in their career though, or will someone like Cox develop and start scoring more regularly? If one of those 3 don’t step up expect Exeter to struggle for goals again.
Exeter do though have a number of promising younger players, both of their own and on loan. They will need the experience of the likes of Magennis, and Woods to help them through.
Orient, Exeter, Northants, Stockport, Bristol City, Wrexham and Crawley will be the next clump of teams.
Then whoever is left will be fighting not to end up in the bottom four.
Huddersfield
Last Season: 23rd in the Championship (Relegated)
Manager: Michael Duff. Duff started his managerial career at Cheltenham, leading them to promotion to League One in his time there. He then departed for Barnsley who he almost led to promotion as well, but came up short in the playoff final. After a failed spell at Swansea Duff was appointed Huddersfield Manager this summer. Overall win percentage: 42.55%
Players in: Lasse Sorensen - Lincoln City (Undisclosed), Mickel Miller - Plymouth (Free), Herbie Kane - Barnsley (Free), Anthony Evans - Bristol Rovers (Undisclosed)
Key Players Out: Jack Rudoni – Coventry, Sorba Thomas – Nantes, Yuta Nakayama - Unattached
3 players to watch: Anthony Evans, After 26 goals over the past 3 seasons from Midfield Huddersfield will be looking to their new signing to carry on his scoring form, and help them push for promotion. Rhys Healey, after missing out on Alfie May Huddersfield haven’t signed a Striker so far this summer. Could Healey fill that void? Just 2 years ago he scored 20 goals in the French second tier, however since returning to England he’s struggled. If he can find his form he could be the Striker Huddersfield are looking for. Michal Helik, with over 150 appearances in the Championship, and 18 goals in the last 4 seasons, the big Polish Centre-back will be a big threat in both boxes for Huddersfield.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Tom Iorpenda (Midfielder), 19 years old Iorpenda made his debut against Manchester City in the FA Cup. The young midfielder has been part of the first team’s pre-season and could get more opportunities this season.
Summary: Huddersfield had problems at both ends of the pitch last season, only Rotherham conceded more, whilst only 4 teams scored less, so it was no surprise they were relegated. Goals were such a problem in fact that Defender Michal Helik ended the season as their top scorer.
With only 4 incomings so far, only troubled Reading have signed less players at the moment. However the 4 signed so far all look like good acquisitions, but given they have a new manager and new system, expect Huddersfield to add more before the end of the window.
Defensively Michael Duff teams are normally pretty well organised, and the additions of Sorensen, Miller and Kane should help that. The question will be if they can add goals, will Healey rediscover his form? If not Huddersfield will need to add recruits if they’re to push the other promotion contenders.
Leyton Orient
Last Season: 11th
Manager: Richie Wellens. Wellens has spent his managerial career in League One and League Two, with one relegation from League One, and Two promotions from League Two. His spell at Orient is by far the longest he has spent at a club. Overall win percentage: 39.9%
Players in: Sonny Perkins - Leeds (Loan), Charlie Kelman - QPR (Loan), Daillang Jaiyesimi - Charlton (Free), Lewis Warrington - Everton (Free), Sean Clare - Wigan (Undisclosed), Zach Hemming - Middlesbrough (Loan)
Key Players Out: Ruel Sotiriou – Bristol Rovers, Rob Hunt - Colchester
3 players to watch: Charlie Kelman, Kelman helped Orient get promotion 2 years ago, and is back on loan. Orient lacked goals last season and Kelman will be hoping to help them in front of goal. George Moncur, an important player in the middle of the pitch. With no Idris El Mizouni this season Moncur could become even more important, especially using his experience to help the likes of Lewis Warrington. Jordan Brown, no one made more than the 48 appearances for Orient last season, and he will be key to Orient having another good season.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Zech Obiero (Midfielder), having recently signed a new 2 year contract 19 year old Obiero looks to be one of Orient’s best young talents.
Summary: After a very creditable top half finish as a newly promoted side Orient will be looking to avoid 2nd season syndrome. Unfortunately for them they lost Ruel Sotiriou to Bristol Rovers, who was their top scorer and no one else hit double figures in the league. They also lost loan player Shaqai Forde who was their second top scorer.
They need the likes of Kelman to replace those goals, as well as some more from the midfield and players like Perkins, Jaiyesimi and Brown. Orient certainly have experienced and should be hard to beat, but they will need to find goals if they’re to match last season’s performance.
There seems to be quite a few defenders, midfielders and a couple of keepers on loan so far but not many strikers. Could well be the reason why a few teams right now seem light up top.
Lincoln City
Last Season: 7th
Manager: Michael Skubala. Skubala had 3 games in caretaker charge of Leeds in February 2023, but his first permanent managerial role is at Lincoln, where he took over in November 2023. Overall win percentage: 41.18%
Players in: Conor McGrandles - Charlton (Undisclosed), Jamie Pardington - Cheltenham (Free), Tom Bayliss - Shrewsbury (Free), JJ McKiernan - Morecambe (Tribunal Fee), Rob Street - Cheltenham (Undisclosed), Tedndayi Darikwa - Apollon Limasoll (Free), Dom Jefferies - Gillingham (Undisclosed), Tom Hamer - Burton (Undisclosed), George Wickens - Fulham (Undisclosed), Zach Jeacock - Birmingham (Free)
Key Players Out: Lasse Sorensen – Huddersfield, Lukas Jensen – Millwall, Teddy Bishop - Colchester
3 players to watch: George Wickens, after losing Lukas Jensen one of the best keepers in the division, Lincoln chose to bring in 22 year old Wickens from Fulham. The former England under 18 international only has 1 full season as a number 1 at Wealdstone in 2021/22. However he did make 13 league appearances for Ross County last season in the Scottish top flight. Ethan Erhahon, has been a key player for the Imps since joining from St Mirren. The midfielder is neat and tidy on the ball and flourished after the arrival of Skubala. Ben House, in 2022/23 House was Lincoln’s top scorer, unfortunately for him last season he struggled with just 2 goals in 22 games. Can House rediscover his form? They lost Danny Mandroiu, and loan player Joe Taylor their top 2 scorers from last season, so will be looking to the likes of House to step up.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Jovon Makama (Striker), the 20 year old is Lincoln’s top scorer in pre-season, and could be on for a breakout season. He got 3 in 40 last season but expect him to do better this season.
Summary: Lincoln’s success last season was built on a solid defence, only Derby conceded less than them. They lost Goalkeeper Jensen and wingback Sorensen, as well as loan player Alex Mitchell. Tendayi Darikwa and Tom Hamer both have plenty of experience and Lincoln should be solid defensively again.
Lincoln have added depth to the midfield with the arrival of McKiernan, Jefferies, Bayliss and McGrandles. Combined with the likes of Erhahon Lincoln have good depth in the middle of the pitch with good experience.
Although Lincoln have lost their top 2 scorers from last season, they have the promising Makama, House their top scorer from the season before, and they’ve added Rob Street. Although they almost certainly won’t end the season as top scorers, expect Skubala’s side to win a number of games by the odd goal.
Mansfield
Last Season: 3rd in League Two (Promoted)
Manager: Nigel Clough. With almost 1,500 games as a manager Clough is one of the most experienced managers in the league. He also stays at clubs for a while with at least 100 games at each of the 5 teams he’s managed. Overall win percentage: 41.12%
Players in: Lee Gregory - Sheffield Wednesday (Free), Keanu Baccus - St Mirren (Free), Frazer Blake-Tracy - Swindon (Free), Deji Oshilaja - Burton (Free), Ben Quinn - Celtic (Free), Will Evans - Newport (Undisclosed)
Key Players Out: Callum Johnson – Bradford, Ollie Clarke - Swindon
3 players to watch: Davis Keillor-Dunn, there are rumours Keillor-Dunn could be on his way, but if he stays he will be a key player for the Stags. Their top scorer from last season, Keillor-Dunn scored 22 in 45 league appearances. Louis Reed, former England under 20 international Reed, was almost an ever present for Mansfield last season. The Midfielder may not get the headlines of some of the other midfielders but is a solid player in the middle with plenty of League One experience. Will Evans, Evans had a brilliant season last year for Newport and the Striker has been recruited to help bolster the Mansfield strike force. If he can keep up his form from last season, in Cloughs attacking side he should score a number of goals.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Ben Quinn (Striker), 3 goals in 3 pre-season games was enough to convince Mansfield to sign the former Celtic Academy player. With the range of options available don’t expect the 19 year old to make an immediate impact, but as the season goes on, he could start to feature more.
Summary: Clough’s side finished last season in League Two with the second most goals and best defence as they secured automatic promotion. With the likes of Keillor-Dunn, Evans and veterans Jordan Bowery, Lucas Akins and Lee Gregory Mansfield should score enough goals to give them a decent chance of survival.
Town have plenty of experience and the arrival of Deji Oshilaja, alongside current players Stephen Quinn and George Maris and they should surprise a few. Clough also knows League One well and his vast experience shouldn’t be taken for granted.
The only question could be the defence now it will be up against better opponents. There hasn’t been a lot of additions so far and that may be where Mansfield look to add quality before the end of the window.
Northampton
Last Season: 14th
Manager: Jon Brady. After 6 ½ years as manager of Brackley Brady departed. He then joined Northampton as a coach, but didn’t become manager until 5 years later. He has now been in charge for 3 ½ years and led them to promotion the season before last. Overall win percentage: 41.6%
Players in: James Wilson - Port Vale (Free), Nik Tzanev - AFC Wimbledon (Free), Callum Morton - Salford (Loan), Cameron McGeehan - Colchester (Free), Jack Baldwin - Ross County (Undisclosed), Tom Eaves - Rotherham (Free), Matt Dibley-Dias - Fulham (Loan), Liam McCarron - Stoke (Undisclosed)
Key Players Out: Shaun McWilliams – Rotherham, Louis Appere – Stevenage, Sam Sherring – MK Dons
3 players to watch: Cameron McGeehan, after 10 goals from Midfield for a struggling Colchester team, McGeehan earned himself a move up a division. Northampton will be looking for McGeehan to help replace the 5 goals Marc Leonard bagged last year. Sam Hoskins, Northampton’s top scorer is a Cobblers legend. After 9 years at the club Hoskins is still going strong, with double figures for goals in the last 3 seasons. Town will be relying on him to score regularly again this season. Jon Guthrie, a key part of Northampton’s defence over the past 3 years Guthrie is a good organiser, and physical leader.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Josh Tomlinson (Defender), the youngest player to ever play for Northampton, when he was just 15 years old. Now 18 he has spent time away on loan over the past couple of seasons. However he was involved with the first teams pre-season, so could see more first team action this year.
Summary: After outperforming expectations last season the pressure will be on the Cobblers to repeat the trick. The biggest loss for them could be loan player Marc Leonard. With he and Midfield partner Shaun McWilliams both missing from the team this season the pressure will be on the likes of Dibley-Dias and McGeehan to replace them.
Although the midfield with the likes of McGeehan and Hoskins should score quite a few goals, Northampton’s strikers don’t inspire confidence. Louis Appere and Tyreece Simpson are gone. In their place are James Wilson, Tom Eaves and Callum Morton. Between the 3 of them they’ve scored just 19 league goals in 163 appearances over the past 2 years.
In defence experience Jack Baldwin has arrived while Nik Tzanev will look to push Lee Burge in goal. Brady’s side are normally pretty solid at the back, but will the losses in the centre of midfield upset their balance?
Last Season: 4th
Manager: Darren Ferguson. Ferguson has had 6 spells as a manager, 4 of them with Peterborough, with less than a year at Preston, and almost 3 years at Doncaster as well. In his time as a Manger though Ferguson has managed 5 promotions and 2 EFL Trophy wins. Overall win percentage: 42.86%
Players in: Abraham Odoh - Harrogate (Undisclosed), David Kamara - Welling (Undisclosed), Chris Conn-Clarke - Altrincham (Undisclosed), George Nevett - Rochdale (Undisclosed), Rio Adebisi - Crewe (Undisclosed), Cian Hayes - Fleetwood (Undisclosed), Jack Sparkes - Portsmouth (Undisclosed), Oscar Wallin - Degerfors (Undisclosed), Sam Curtis - Sheffield United (Loan), Mahmadou Susoho - Manchester City (Loan)
Key Players Out: Harrison Burrows – Sheffield United, Ronnie Edwards – Southampton, Josh Knight – Hannover, Jonson Clarke-Harris - Rotherham
3 players to watch: Kwame Poku, Poku had a very good season last year and with Ephron Mason Clark’s loan finished he will be even more key to Peterborough’s success. With a combined 18 goals and assists in the league last season he will be one of Posh’s biggest threats. Archie Collins, one of the signings of the season last year Collins fitted into Peterborough’s style perfectly following his move from Exeter. Although only 24 he has over 250 league appearances in his career and is therefore one of their most experienced players. That experience and leadership in the middle of the pitch will be key if Peterborough are to challenge the top 6 again. Rio Adebisi/Jack Sparkes, Slightly cheating here but Harrison Burrows was so good for Peterborough (20 combined goals and assists last season) that I’ve picked both his replacements. Adebisi was signed before Burrows had even left as they knew he was going, however he picked up an injury ruling him out for a few months so they went and signed Sparkes. Burrows contribution will be missed and although Adebisi and Sparkes probably won’t match that, how close they get could play a big part in how high Posh finish.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Emmanuel Fernandez (Defender), signed from Ramsgate in 2021 Fernandez might be the next former non-league player turned star at Peterborough. The departure of Ronnie Edwards has opened up a spot in central defence and 22 year old Fernandez has been playing there in pre-season. Expect him to start the season and turn into a name you will have heard about by the end of the year.
Summary: Peterborough have been doing Peterborough things in the transfer window. The signing of arguably the best young player last season in non-league Conn-Clarke surprised absolutely no one, and he’s already impressing in pre-season. Odoh, Kamara, Nevett and Adebisi all very much fit their transfer policy as well.
They have though lost a lot of key players and the question will be over whether the new singings can adequately replace the departures. Ferguson’s sides have never been renowned for being that defensively solid due to the way he gets his team to play. Despite finishing 4th last season, 12 teams conceded the same or fewer goals. In fact relegated Cheltenham only conceded 4 more. On the flip side though they score plenty, and were the divisions top scorers.
Unlike some teams who will go unmentioned Peterborough seem to get the most out of Manchester City loanees, last season it was Joel Katongo, this season they’re hoping it’s Mahmadou Susoho.
Although goals shouldn’t be a problem the loss of key players like Edwards, Burrows and Knight have left holes in the team. If Adebisi, Sparkes, Fernandez, Wallin and Curtis are adequate replacements they will be in the mix for at least the playoffs again. If not, well Peterborough games should at least have plenty of goals.
Reading
Last Season: 17th
Manager: Ruben Selles. Selles first managerial role was at Southampton, where after replacing Nathan Jones led the Saints to relegation after just 2 wins in 17. After leaving Southampton he quickly took over Reading and guided them to safety last season, despite a points deduction. Overall win percentage: 31.51%
Players in: N/A
Key Players Out: Clinton Mola – Bristol Rovers
3 players to watch: Lewis Wing, signed from Wycombe last season Wing had an immediate impact, no one managed more than the combined 18 goals and assists he contributed. With plenty of experience he will look to help a relatively young Reading side. Harvey Knibbs, another player signed last summer, Knibbs had a good season, missing just 1 league game and scoring 11 goals. Reading will be looking for more though if they’re to improve. Tyler Bindon, only 19 years of age but with 44 appearances last season Bindon is already an important part of the defence at Reading. The New Zealand international should only improve this season.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Kelvin Abrefa (Defender), the 20 year old Defender made 13 appearances last season, and has been with the first team in pre-season this summer. If Reading don’t make many defensive acquisitions before the end of the window his playing time should only increase.
Summary: In terms of incoming transfer activity the summary is pretty quick. There hasn’t been any. In terms of outgoings though they haven’t actually lost that much either. Clinton Mola is the biggest departure with Paul Mukairu being the only loan player to make any significant impact.
All the talk has been on the off field developments with former Wycombe Owner Rob Couhig looking like he might be the man about to takeover the club. For Reading that can’t come soon enough with them needing to add recruits if they want to push for the top half. Even without their points deduction Reading would only have moved up 2 places to 15th last year.
They’re a relatively young side and will need their experienced players to improve on last season’s efforts. Although they scored quite a few goals, only 3 teams conceded more. Without recruits to the defence Reading could again struggle to keep many clean sheets, and struggle to threaten the top half of the table.
Rotherham
Last Season: 24th in the Championship (Relegated)
Manager: Steve Evans. Now in his second spell at Rotherham Evans has multiple promotions in his career, including 2 at the Millers. Evans started his managerial career at Gedney Hill in the Peterborough League. He worked his way up through non-league before winning promotion to the football league with Boston. Overall win percentage: 42.4%* (*Only includes from Boston)
Players in: Jonson Clarke-Harris - Peterborough (Free), Joe Rafferty - Portsmouth (Free), Shaun McWilliams - Northampton (Free), Reece James - Sheffield Wednesday (Free), Sean Raggett - Portsmouth (Free), Joe Powell - Burton (Free), Liam Kelly - Coventry (Free), Zak Jules - Exeter (Free), Alex MacDonald - Stevenage (Free), Cameron Dawson - Sheffield Wednesday (Free), Joseph Hungbo - Nurnberg (Loan), Esapa Osong - Nottingham Forest (Loan), Jack Holmes - Stamford (Undisclosed)
Key Players Out: Viktor Johansson – Stoke, Sam Clucas – Unattached, Cafu - Unattached
3 players to watch: Zak Jules, a really good acquisition, only spent one season at Exeter, but has been one of the better centre-backs in League One for the last 2 seasons. Big and physical and will suit Steve Evans style of play. Jonson Clarke-Harris, Rotherham had to add goals to their side and Clarke-Harris should provide those. He has at least 13 goals in each of his last 5 seasons at League One Level. Cameron Dawson, after more than a decade at Sheffield Wednesday, Dawson made the move across Yorkshire to Rotherham. After selling Goalkeeper Johansson, one of Rotherham’s better performers last season Dawson will be looking to establish himself as number one, in a team that should be defensively solid and won’t be expecting to concede many goals.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Ben Hatton (Forward), the 18 year old made his debut in April, and has 3 senior appearances to his name. Will probably not be involved too much early on but might get game time as the season progresses, if he’s not sent out on loan.
Summary: Rotherham have had a big turnover in players out and in this summer. The signings they’ve made mainly being free’s and loans. However there is a regular theme with most of their signings, solid, no nonsense, experienced players.
It’s clear Rotherham and Evans had a game plan when it came to signings and there are a number of promotions also across the players they’ve signed.
Rotherham should be very defensively solid and hard to beat, the experience they’ve signed along with the quality in the middle of the pitch should mean they’re a big threat for promotion. Add in the goals of Clarke-Harris, and although Rotherham games might not be the most exciting, expect the Millers to be effective and win a lot of games.
Shrewsbury
Last Season: 19th
Manager: Paul Hurst. After almost leading Shrewsbury to promotion from League One, Hurst left to join Ipswich. However that spell only lasted 15 games with just 1 win. Since then mixed spells at Scunthorpe and Grimsby followed before returning to Shrewsbury in January. 4 wins in 18 was just about enough to guide the Shrews to safety. Overall win percentage: 45.1%
Players in: George Lloyd - Cheltenham (Free), Toto Nsiala - Burton (Free), Harrison Biggins - Doncaster (Free), Toby Savin - Accrington (Undisclosed), Tommi O'Reilly - Aston Villa (Loan), Luca Hoole - Bristol Rovers (Undisclosed), John Marquis - Bristol Rovers (Free), Joshua Kayode - Rotherham (Loan), Joe Young - Wolves (Free), Jordan Rossiter - Bristol Rovers (Free), Josh Feeney - Aston Villa (Loan)
Key Players Out: Tom Bayliss – Lincoln, Daniel Udoh – Wycombe, Marko Marosi – Unattached, Jason Sraha - Burton
3 players to watch: Tom Bloxham, only 20 years old but Shrewsbury will be looking for Bloxham to improve on last seasons return of 2 goals. The team need to add goals across the team and will be hoping Bloxham in particular can have a breakthrough season. Toto Nsiala, the Shrews have lost a lot of experience at the back and Nsiala certainly provides that. Manager Paul Hurst also loves him, this is the 4th time he’s played for him in his career. Toby Savin, signed from Accrington Goalkeeper Savin has big gloves to fill after replacing Marosi. Given Shrewsbury’s issues at the other end Savin will need to have a good season to keep Shrewsbury in games.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on:
Summary: There has been some concern about the summer window so far from Shrews fan, and criticism for some of the people financing and running the club. Given Shrewsbury only finished 4 points above the drop last season, and the strength of 3 of the sides coming up that is understandable.
The Shrews were the lowest scorers in the division last season managing just 35 goals in their 46 games. When you consider top scorer Daniel Udoh left to join Wycombe, they lost long time number one Goalkeeper Marko Marosi, centre backs Chey Dunkley and Jason Sraha and important Midfielder Tom Bayliss and you can understand why Shrewsbury are tipped to struggle.
The biggest concern is up front for Shrewsbury after Udoh’s departure. Bloxham has shown promise, the other 2 forwards signed are George Lloyd and Joshua Kayode, who are both 24 but have never been prolific in their careers. Anything outside of the bottom four will be a positive season for Shrewsbury.
Stevenage
Last Season: 9th
Manager: Alex Revell. Now in his second spell in charge at Stevenage, the only team he’s managed. His first spell almost led to them being relegated out of the football league until Macclesfield got a points deduction. Revell though only lasted until November the following season. He took over from Steve Evans for the final 2 games of last season. Overall win percentage: 26.6%
Players in: Louis Appere - Northampton (Free), Dan Kemp - MK Dons (Free), Lewis Freestone - Cheltenham (Undisclosed), Daniel Phillips - St Johnstone (Free), Tyrece Simpson - Huddersfield (Undisclosed), Murphy Cooper - QPR (Loan), Charlie Goode - Brentford (Free)
Key Players Out: Terence Vancooten – Burton, Kane Hemmings – Crewe, Alex MacDonald - Rotherham
3 players to watch: Carl Piergianni, one of the best central defenders in the league last Piergianni is a key part of Stevenage’s defence and a big reason why their defence was so good. Stevenage need the 32 year old to maintain his form. Jamie Reid, after 10 goals in the promotion campaign for Stevenage the year before last he took his game to another level last season bagging 18 goals. Will the switch in Manager impact Reid or can he continue his good form? Dan Kemp, one of Stevenage’s new signings Kemp had a good half season on loan at Swindon to earn this move. If he can continue scoring it will help take the pressure off Reid to provide most of the goals.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: David Hicks (Midfielder), young Midfielder that’s spent some time out on loan. I would expect him to probably go out on loan again. If not he may get some time in cup competitions.
Summary: After overachieving last season Stevenage now without Steve Evans will be hoping they can maintain that performance. Their success was built on their defence with just 3 teams conceding less.
Charlie Goode and Lewis Freestone should be a decent acquisitions and replacement for Vancooten. Whilst the additions of Kemp, Simpson and Appere give them goals and alternative options to Reid.
Stevenage haven’t lost a great deal and whilst most of their signings are not headline grabbers they look like smart business. Given the strength in League One this year they may drop down a bit lower in the table than last season, but should be at least mid-table.
Stockport
Last Season: 1st in League Two (Promoted)
Manager: Dave Challinor. After starting off at Colwyn Bay Challinor has spent the majority of his managerial career in non-league. After 2 promotions with Colwyn, he left to take over at Fylde, who he guided to 3 promotions, he then managed one at Hartlepool, before 2 with current team Stockport. Overall win percentage: 53.4%
Players in: Jay Mingi - Colchester (Undisclosed), Jayden Fevrier - Colchester (Undisclosed), Jack Diamond - Sunderland (Free), Callum Connolly - Blackpool (Free), Lewis Bate - Leeds (Free), Corey Addai - Crawley (Undisclosed), Sam Hughes - Burton (Free), Lewis Fiorini - Manchester City (Undisclosed), Michael Mellon - Burnley (Loan), Tayo Adaramola - Crystal Palace (Loan), Louie Barry - Aston Villa (Loan)
Key Players Out: Antoni Sarcevic – Bradford, Ryan Croasdale – Port Vale, Akil Wright – Ross County, Paddy Madden - Chesterfield
3 players to watch: Isaac Olaofe, Olaofe came though at Millwall, but the 24 year old didn’t have his breakthrough year until last season, when he grabbed 20 league goals for high scoring Stockport. They have plenty of options up front but if Olaofe keeps up last seasons form he will be a handful in League One. Lewis Bate, like Olaofe is another south Londoner, was signed at one point by Leeds for £1.5m. That move didn’t really work out for him, but after a promising second half of last season on loan at MK Dons he earned this permanent move. Could be one of the best ball playing Midfielders in the League if he starts living up to his potential. Sam Hughes, after over 100 appearances for Burton Hughes made the move to Stockport. The centre back has plenty of League One experience and should be a solid signing for Challinor’s side.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Tayo Adaramola (Defender), promising 20 year old left back. He played 14 games in the Belgian top flight last season, but is yet to make an impact in English football. Should see plenty of game time this season.
Summary: Stockport last season were the best side in the division on their way to becoming Champions. They scored the most goals and had the second best defence in the league. Since then they have recruited very well. They’ve added a mixture of experience and youth, with some highly rated youngsters and players that had good seasons in League Two.
Although Stockport might have lost last season’s second top scorer Paddy Madden, they still have top scorer Isaac Olaofe and Kyle Wootton, who has been their top scorer through pre-season. Louie Barry is also back on loan, and promising young forward Michael Mellon who got 13 in 22 in League Two last season. Stockport should have more than enough firepower to compete.
Defensively the additions of one of League Two’s best Goalkeepers last season Corey Addai, and the experience Hughes are upgrades. Whilst promising youngster Adaramola should be a big help at left back.
This Stockport team is better than the 4 teams that got promotion the season before last. They showed what can happen when you have momentum, a good manager, and recruit well. Stockport have recruited even better than they did, if Stockport are in the top half at the end of the season no one should be surprised.
Wigan
Last Season: 12th
Manager: Shaun Maloney. Maloney’s first managerial role was at Hibernian but lasted just 19 games. He took over at Wigan in January 2023 but was unable to stop them being relegated. Overall win percentage: 37%.
Players in: Michael Olakigbe - Brentford (Loan), Calvin Ramsay - Liverpool (Loan), Dion Rankine - Chelsea (Free), Andy Lonergan - Everton (Free), Will Aimson - Exeter (Undisclosed), Tyrece Francois - Fulham (Free), Toby Sibbick - Hearts (Undisclosed), Joe Hugill - Manchester United (Loan), Silko Thomas - Leicester (Loan), Luke Chambers - Liverpool (Loan)
Key Players Out: Josh Magennis – Exeter, Sean Clare – Leyton Orient, Stephen Humphrys – Unattached
3 players to watch: Joe Hugill, Signed to replace the more experienced Magennis Wigan need Hugill to live up to his early potential. Only 20 so with time on his side but after just 1 goal in 12 games for Burton, Wigan will need better if they want to push for the playoffs. Charlie Hughes, Also 20 Hughes became a key part of Wigan’s defence last season. Rumours he could move on, but the Latics will be hoping he stays, and keeps on improving. Thelo Aasgaard, only 22 but with over 100 league appearances already. Aasgaard’s potential and talent has not been questioned, but his consistency has. If he can improve that and add a few more goals and assists to his game he could be one of the best players in the division.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Dion Rankine (Midfielder), the 21 year old signed on a free from Chelsea earlier in the summer. He had a promising season on loan at Exeter last season, and should be a good addition in the Midfield.
Summary: If Wigan hadn’t of had a points deduction they would have been just 6 points off the playoffs last season. This summer they have lost a number experienced players and generally gone for younger players. They have also utilised the loan market more than anyone else with 5 loan players in already.
Defensively Wigan should be pretty solid with promising Goalkeeper Sam Tickle, new recruits Toby Sibbick and Will Aimson at the heart of defence, alongside Charlie Hughes who for now is still at Wigan, and Calvin Ramsay on loan from Liverpool.
In Midfield Tyreece Francois has been signed but at 24 he only has 28 league appearances in his career, however 14 of those were in the Danish top flight last season. They do also still have Babajide Adeeko and Matthew Smith, as well as Rankine. Whilst the inconsistent Thelo Aasgaard can provide goals and assists.
Up front however is where they lack experience, with 3 20 year old Strikers, Hugill, Chris Sze and Josh Stones. Between those 3 they only have 2 league goals in the football league. If Wigan are going to struggle anywhere that is where they will have problems.
Wrexham
Last Season: 2nd in League Two (Promoted)
Manager: Phil Parkinson. Parkinson started his managerial career at Colchester who he managed to guide to promotion in his final season in charge. He then took over at Hull but lasted less than 6 months. After a spell at Charlton where he was relegated from the Championship he was sacked after just over 2 years. He managed another promotion at Bradford as well as a league cup final. He also managed a promotion with Bolton. After a spell at Sunderland he then took over at Wrexham, where he has been able to guide them to 2 promotions in 3 seasons. Overall win percentage: 41.28%
Players in: Arthur Okonkwo - Arsenal (Free), Lewis Brunt - Leicester (Undisclosed), George Dobson - Charlton (Free), Sebastian Revan - Aston Villa (Undisclosed), Callum Burton - Plymouth (Free), Dan Scarr - Plymouth (Undisclosed), Ollie Rathbone - Rotherham
Key Players Out: Aaron Hayden – Carlisle, Luke Young – Cheltenham, Ben Tozer – Forest Green
3 players to watch: Paul Mullin, last time Mullin got promoted to League One he decided to leave and head to non-league football. This time he’s staying, although he will miss the start of the season injured. For all his goals recently he’s only ever played 20 games at this level, and scored just 3 goals. He and Wrexham will be hoping he can improve on that this season. Elliot Lee, another player that dropped from League One to non-league, Lee was in the team of the season last year. Can he maintain the form he showed last season? Lewis Brunt, was very good for last year’s League Two rivals Mansfield. Wrexham decided to snap him up, and he should be a good player in central defence.
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Harry Dean (Defender), the 18 year old has recently signed his first professional contract, and has been a bit part player in pre-season. Game time probably depends on how many recruits Wrexham bring in, but may feature in the cups.
Summary: Team Hollywood were expected to splash the cash, however so far recruitment for the league’s Welsh side has been slow. Just until I was about to post this, then they went and broke their club record on Ollie Rathbone.
At the back Wrexham should be pretty solid, they’ve got Goalkeeper, Okonkwo back permanently this time. Brunt, Revan and Scarr should all be decent. There’s some bloke called Dobson in the middle with Rathbone, and Lee.
The question for now would be in the final third. When will Mullin be back, and who will score while he’s out. Who will also create the chances? Can wind up merchant James McClean still cut it at League One level despite his ageing legs. If Wrexham are going to start splashing the cash between now and the end of the window attack minded players should be top of the list.
Wycombe
Last Season: 10th
Manager: Matt Bloomfield. Bloomfield’s managerial career started at Colchester but lasted just 28 games before heading back to Wycombe in February 2023 where he played for 19 years. Overall win percentage: 38.6%
Players in: Alex Hartridge - Exeter (Free), Nathan Bishop - Sunderland (Loan), Tyreeq Bakinson - Sheffield Wednesday (Free), Daniel Harvie - MK Dons (Undisclosed), Daniel Udoh - Shrewsbury (Free)
Key Players Out: Max Stryjek – Jagiellonia, Chris Forino – Bolton
3 players to watch: Luke Leahy, had a very good season after joining from Shrewsbury the previous season with 11 goals and 7 assists from Midfield. Wycombe will need more of the same if they’re to maintain last seasons top half finish. Daniel Udoh, after 12 goals in 46 games last season for Shrewsbury, he’s another that has now made the move to Wycombe. Udoh is physical, strong and should suit Bloomfield’s style of play. Garath McCleary, it feels like McCleary has been playing for 20 years, and that’s because he has. Still going strong at 37, McCleary played in 39 games and scored 6 goals last season, can he continue performing to such a high level for another year?
Player you might not have heard of to keep an eye on: Taylor Clark (Midfielder), 19 year old Clark made his debut in the EFL Trophy last season before playing 20 games on loan in the National League South. He should see more action in the cups at least this season.
Summary: Wycombe have been taken over by a new Billionaire owner, however that is yet to be seen in terms of incomings with only one transfer fee paid so far. At the start of last season, there were doubts from Wycombe’s fans about Bloomfield however most of that had gone by the end when he got them to a creditable 10th place. Considering only 4 teams had a lower average attendance and 2 of those were relegated, Wycombe punched well above their size.
As well as a quiet recruitment so far, they have also lost key players like Chris Forino, and some good loan players like Dale Taylor and Freddie Potts. Nathan Bishop has come in to compete for the number one Goalkeeper role. Hartridge and Harvie are solid if unspectacular additions to the defence, whilst Udoh should get some goals.
They probably haven’t done enough yet in the window to think about improving on last season but they should have enough to keep them out of the bottom 4.
They'd be better starting small and focusing on the aisles in their stadium.