Reviewing 2025/26

Never at any stage were County outside the top 10. That shows the level of consistency they had throughout the campaign, supporting the positivity shown towards their promotion chances by many in the press back in August. I must admit, I didn't share that optimism, but they proved me wrong in the most part, finishing third and only missing out on promotion after losing to an impressive Bolton Wanderers in the play off final. Kyle Wotton chipped in with 19 goals along the way.

Looking ahead to 2026/27

The play off push last season seemed to take all the energy levels out of them and by the time the final came around, Bolton took full advantage. County will be hoping to go one better this time out but with the division looking markedly stronger than last year, it doesn't seem likely.

Not signing Louie Barry on a permanent transfer and letting him go to a potential promotion rival in Sheffield Wednesday could prove to be a big mistake. The signings of Eoghan O'Connell, Kyron Gordon, Ryan Glover and Owen Dodgson will all help bolester the squad but a few more additions before August ends will be gratefully recieved after 11 players departed between may and July.

Court Offside Tip

They will have no doubt been gutted to miss out on promotion last season, but I don't see them going quite so close this time out. Make no mistake, there's money in the club so if they find a couple of gems between now and the window shutting I'll definitely be taking a peek at the play off odds but right now, I think 7th is about right.