Football Season Guide

Michael Skubala’s first season as Lincoln City’s head coach was certainly something of a rollercoaster ride. His arrival came after Mark Kennedy’s surprise departure barely two months into the season came as a real surprise. It had been an encouraging first season under the Irishman but criticism of winger Danny Mandroiu for some ill-discipline prompted a parting of the ways. The Imps were slipping towards a relegation battle in January before a remarkable turn of form under Skubala saw them just fall short in a late charge for a play-off place. Sadly the impetus and optimism has dissipated by the unexpected departures of key players this summer. Goalkeeper Lukas Jensen and wing-back Lasse Sorensen have already joined Championship sides Millwall and Blackburn Rovers whilst the club are unlikely to be able to prevent centre-back Paudie O’Connor and midfielder Ethan Erhahon from joining them. The loss of such an influential quartet is a huge blow for Skubala, who has spent the summer trying to replace them. Conor McGrandles has returned to the club where he always seemed at home whilst George Wickens will replace Jensen between the sticks after an undisclosed fee was paid to Fulham for his services. The trio of Dominic Jefferies, JJ McKiernon and Rob Street will be looking to step-up from League Two whilst Tendayi Darikwa returned from a spell in Cyprus. As is often the case its goals that a likely to be the biggest issue for City. Ben House and Tyler Walker missed most of last season through injury and are likely to carry them into the new campaign.