League One 2023: Club-by-Club Preview of Titans and Underdogs

League One has some titans joining the fray this season.

Leicester City lifted the Premier League trophy a decade ago but now they return to the third tier for the first time since 2009, while Sheffield Wednesday are back to kick off a new era under brand new ownership.

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But with such recent, rich history comes mammoth expectation and for the Foxes in particular, nothing else will do other than promotion.

While for a club like last season’s League Two champions Bromley, who have already reached a new height in securing promotion to League One for the first time, the pressure is off.

Could this be another year of the underdogs?

AFC Wimbledon

Aaron Paul, BBC Radio 5 Live

Manager: Johnnie Jackson

Last season: 19th (just!)

Key ins: Dan Sweeney (Stevenage, free), Steve Seddon re-signing for the new season

Key outs: Omar Bugiel (Suzhou Dongwu, free)

What are the expectations heading into the season? Keep their heads above water, and keep improving.

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What are the major strengths of the team to help them achieve that? Defensively the Dons can be tough to breakdown.

And what are the underlying weaknesses that could hold them back? Far too streaky, runs of wins will almost certainly be followed by a long barren drought.

Who’s a player to look out for this season who could be a difference-maker? Marcus Browne – technically brilliant, he’s a key man in all good things they do.

Barnsley

Adam Oxley, BBC Radio Sheffield

Head coach: Daniel Stendel

Last season: 15th

Key ins: Cameron McGeehan (Northampton, free), Sam Gale (Gillingham, undisclosed), Clayton Taylor (Newcastle Jets, undisclosed)

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Key outs: David McGoldrick (Mansfield, free), Adam Phillips (Bradford, undisclosed), Eoghan O’Connell (Stockport, free)

Expectations? Daniel Stendel has been a popular choice to replace Conor Hourihane as head coach this summer. The German has returned to Oakwell hoping to repeat the success he achieved in his first spell when he guided the Reds to the Championship in 2018-19.

Promotion feels a long shot.

Barnsley have a limited budget as the owners aim to operate within their means. A top-half finish would feel like a step in the right direction for the Reds, but the fanbase – who have seen their side play in the second tier for the majority of the club’s history – will expect the team to be at least knocking on the door of the play-offs.

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Strengths? The focus has been on recruiting young, hungry players to Stendel’s high-energy, high-pressing game.

Retaining key midfielders in Patrick Kelly, Luca Connell and Reyes Cleary, coupled with the youthful enthusiasm of the club’s new signings, the majority of whom are aged 23 and under, will offer hope that Stendel can mould a team to at least cause problems for the more fancied teams in the division.

Weaknesses? The Reds have lost goals and experience this summer with last season’s top three scorers David McGoldrick (18), Davis Keillor-Dunn (16) and Adam Phillips (11) all having departed Oakwell.

Returning midfielder Cameron McGeehan, who previously played at Oakwell in Stendel’s first spell, is currently the only player in his 30s in the squad, and a lack of a few experienced heads has historically not served Barnsley well.

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Difference-maker? Patrick Kelly is likely to be crucial to any success that Barnsley achieve this year. The 21-year-old got better and better throughout his first campaign with the Reds and ended the season as a full Northern Ireland international, scoring his first goal for his country against France just before this summer’s World Cup.

Blackpool

Andy Bayes, BBC Radio Lancashire

Manager: Ian Evatt

Last season: 13th

Key ins: Jordan Williams (Portsmouth, loan), Dion Charles (Huddersfield, loan), Ilmari Niskanen (Exeter, free), Karoy Anderson (Charlton, undisclosed), Finley Munroe (Middlesbrough, loan)

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Key outs: Ashley Fletcher (Huddersfield, free), James Husband (Doncaster, free)

Expectations? To build on the impressive end to last season, when they climbed away from trouble with six wins from their last seven games. If they can start brightly, expectations may begin to rise, although Ian Evatt is at pains to stress that Blackpool have no right to consider themselves challengers simply because of the size of the club.

Strengths? There are plenty of attacking options, but keeping them fit is an issue straight away. They’ve got great options in midfield, with Albie Morgan back in action after a long absence to complement the talent already there. Signing Karoy Anderson permanently is a big boost. He impressed last season while on loan.

Weaknesses? Injuries. The centre of defence has taken a big hit, with Fraser Horsfall and Michael Ihiekwe both missing the start of the campaign following injuries sustained last term. Likewise, the absence of Dale Taylor in the forward line with a hamstring problem is a huge blow.

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Blackpool missed far too many players last season, and this year doesn’t look much different.

Difference-maker? Josh Bowler. On his day, he is a Championship-level player, but Blackpool now need a level of consistency from him. In a team that plays three at the back, it can be difficult to get the very best out of an out-and-out wide player, but his goal on the opening day at Grimsby will no doubt give him the confidence to find more.

Bradford City

Jamie Raynor, BBC Radio Leeds

Manager: Graham Alexander

Last season: Fourth

Key ins: Jake Beesley (Burton Albion, undisclosed), Adam Phillips (Barnsley, undisclosed), Macaulay Gillesphey (Charlton Athletic, undisclosed), Callum Connolly (Stockport County, free), Jon McCracken (Dundee, free)

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Key outs: Jenson Metcalfe (Millwall, undisclosed), Max Power (Wigan Athletic, undisclosed), Sam Walker (Watford, undisclosed), Curtis Tilt (Burton Albion, undisclosed)

Expectations? It will take some going to replicate Bradford City’s fourth placed finish in League One of last season, particularly given it was their first time back at the level in six years.

The Bantams proved last season that money isn’t everything, but with some financial heavyweights now in the division, a successive top six finish may be an unfair expectation for this evolving club. Just outside it may still be considered a ‘good’ campaign.

Strengths? Recruitment has long been a strength of the football club’s rapid rise over the last couple of years. That again could prove dividends from their summer work so far. Their forward line, in particular, looks well stocked with the newly acquired Jake Beesley and Adam Phillps. Add into the mix their impressive home form over that period, Valley Parade could once again prove fortress-like.

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Weaknesses? Midfield remains a concern for many supporters. The heartbeat of last season’s play-off push was quickly ripped apart with the sizeable sale of Jenson Metcalfe and the surprise departure of captain Max Power.

Whilst the addition of Callum Connolly offers some solution, along with the deeper deployment of new captain Antoni Sarcevic, the Bantams still feel short in the centre-point of their spine.

Difference-maker? One of their own, Bobby Pointon. The ever-flourishing homegrown talent has taken to League One like a duck to water. Still only 22, his goal return has increased season-on-season. We’re yet to truly know his ceiling, but his floor continues to rise.

Bromley

Ryan Matthews, BBC Radio London

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Manager: Andy Woodman

Last season: League Two champions

Key ins: Shamal George (Wycombe, free), Kamil Conteh (Bristol Rovers, undisclosed), Jacob Mendy (Peterborough, free), Chanse Headman (Harrogate Town, undisclosed), Deon Woodman (Wealdstone, undisclosed), Victor Adeboyejo (Mansfield, free), Ethon Archer (Luton Town, loan), Richard Taylor (Bolton Wanderers, loan), JJ McKiernan (Lincoln City, undisclosed)

Key outs: Idris Odutayo (Dundee, free), Jude Arthurs (Crawley Town, free), Ben Krauhaus (Brentford, end of loan), Byron Webster (retired), Carl Jenkinson (released), Kyle Cameron (Newport County, free), Sam Long (Salford City, free), Marcus Dinanga (Aldershot Town), Brooklyn Ilunga (Hartlepool Town, free)

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Expectations? It is very tricky to define any level of expectations for Bromley this season. Even the most optimistic of Bromley fans wouldn’t have dreamed of reaching League One so quickly, so expectations will have to be reasonable – particularly with the level of financial muscle in the league.

A good season for Bromley would be proving that their approach works at the level, with a couple of notable scalps along the way and retaining their place in the division.

Strengths? Bromley are, and have been defined by their superior fitness and robust approach in the last few seasons. Whilst they are no slouches tactically and can outplay teams on their day, Andy Woodman has built a brand of football that is centred around peak physical performance, tall imposing players and set piece excellence.

This, coupled with the incredible team spirit that Woodman has engendered at Bromley will stand them in good stead in the upcoming season.

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Weaknesses? A large percentage of the squad are still unproven and untested at this level and whilst the club have moved to address this with their summer recruitment, there is still a question mark as to how they will be able to adapt to League One level.

Specifically, a lack of quality in depth particularly in forward areas could be a limiting factor – club talisman Michael Cheek has confounded expectations in League Two and, whilst you wouldn’t bet against him transferring his goalscoring exploits up another level, the burden will have to be shared around.

Difference-maker? Ethon Archer – young winger on loan from Luton Town. Skilful dead ball specialist, League One experience scoring 11 goals in 81 appearances for Cheltenham, three in 23 on loan with Port Vale last season.

Burton Albion

Dave Fletcher, BBC Radio Derby

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Head coach: Gary Bowyer

Last season: 17th

Key ins: Curtis Tilt (Bradford, undisclosed), Matty Dennis (Notts County, undisclosed), Corey Addai (Stockport, loan), Gbemi Arubi (Dundalk, undisclosed)

Key outs: Jake Beedley (Bradford, undisclosed), Udoka Godwin-Malife (Reading, undisclosed), Dylan Williams (Motherwell, undisclosed), Terence Vancooten (Stevenage, undisclosed)

Expectations? Even the most optimistic Burton Albion supporter would struggle to make a case for anything other than yet another battle against relegation – and there are few out there when making their season’s predictions who have the Brewers anywhere other than the bottom four.

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Gary Bowyer masterminded the Great Escape in 2024-25, after arriving at the club when nobody gave them a chance of avoiding the drop. Given the summer the Brewers have had so far, staying up this time around would be the Greatest Escape.

Weaknesses? The major issue Bowyer has is, once again, the size of his squad.

Sixteen of last season’s contracted players have been sold or released – including skipper Udoka Godwin-Malife and leading scorer Jake Beesley – and the three loan players who finished the campaign have departed. At the time of writing, just four have been brought in, three on permanent deals and one on loan. The club is going to have to work hard before transfer deadline day to make up the deficit.

Difference-maker? Bowyer gave a categorical ‘no’ when asked if he expects to have striker Tyreece Shade in his squad come the beginning of September. Charlie Webster’s recent injury record might mean he remains until January at least.

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Experience is an issue, so the spotlight will be on skipper Curtis Tilt and midfielder George Evans who, between them, account for the vast majority of EFL appearances in the squad as it currently stands.

Cambridge United

Mark Johnson, BBC Radio Cambridge

Manager: Neil Harris

Last season: Third in League Two

Key ins: Gassan Ahadme (Charlton, loan), Callum Perry (Coventry, loan), Isaac Heath (Everton, free)

Key outs: Adam Mayor (end of loan), James Gibbons (Notts County, free)

Expectations? Probably mid-table, although whether it’s a comfortable or nervy mid-table remains to be seen. For what it’s worth, I suspect the former.

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Strengths? Head coach Neil Harris knows the division well and can set up a team with the right shape, mentality and flexibility to surprise a few in the coming season… and he’ll relish the role of the underdog.

Shayne Lavery was re-signed after being released at the end of the last season; his return will bring potency and mobility to the front line, but Cambridge will need to wrap him in cotton wool to ensure they can get enough minutes from his beleaguered hamstrings.

Weaknesses? This biggest worry is the depth of the squad. The business they’ve been able to do so far has been excellent, but signings seem to have dried up at the moment.

This is a concern as several members of the squad will need to have their playing time carefully managed as they are far from bullet proof in terms of injury records. It feels like the squad is about three or four players light, so there’s still plenty of work to be done before the transfer window closes.

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Difference-maker? Gassan Ahadme is the obvious choice as he’s traditional centre forward the club lacked last season (although they did pretty well finding a work-around!).

But for me, Ben Knight has the potential to be one of the most inventive players not just at the club, but in the division.

Doncaster Rovers

Robbie Andrews, BBC Radio Sheffield

Manager: Grant McCann

Last season: 14th

Key ins: Alfie May (Huddersfield, loan), Isaac Hutchinson (Bristol Rovers, undisclosed), Jordan Thomas (Cheltenham, free)

Key outs: Luke Molyneux (Salford, undisclosed)

Expectations? Rovers made a brilliant start to last season, but needed a very good end to avoid relegation. A top half finish is not out of the question with a greater level of consistency.

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Strengths? The recruitment of players who have experience for the level, for example defender James Husband and Alfie May, will help Rovers in trying to achieve their aims.

Plus the squad lacked League One experience last season, so they’ll be more street wise this time around.

Weaknesses? Belief was viewed to be a big issue for much of last season, so hopefully they won’t lack that now. Strength in depth in forward areas might be an issue as there are injury concerns to Frankie Okoronkwo.

Difference-maker? A less heralded summer signing has been Leon Ayinde from Ipswich, but he’s looked good in pre-season, never takes a backward step, and always looks to make things happen.

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Huddersfield Town

Paul Ogden, BBC Radio Leeds

Head coach: Martin Drury

Last season: Ninth

Key ins: Ashley Fletcher (Blackpool, free), Ibane Bowat (Portsmouth, undisclosed), Ethan Brierley (Brentford, undisclosed), Matt Young (Sunderland, loan), Derens Fernandes (Excelsior, undisclosed) and Ilias Bronkhorst (Excelsior, free)

Key outs: Alfie May (Doncaster Rovers, loan), Lee Nicholls (Preston, undisclosed),

Expectations? Ideally, an uninterrupted third successive tilt at promotion, this time without yet another change of manager/head coach in the new year. There has been a notable aim expressed by club decision-makers for the team to prioritise entertainment and avoid predictability.

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Strengths? The sheer volume of brand new and as-new recruits (many of whom remain from last summer’s staggering intake) over the past 14 months as a whole. The squad appears overstocked in certain positions, so departures should still be expected in the opening weeks.

Weaknesses? Individual talent is unmistakeable, but consistent collaboration has been thin at Huddersfield since relegation from the Championship.

With such an oversized player pool to start with, non-selections will be a long list, so squad harmony might be unusually hard to achieve. To manage such hazards, the addition of Alan Knill’s calm experience to the dynamic younger coaching talents of Drury, Jonathan Stead and Co. is a clever strategy.

Difference-maker? For on-the-ball thrills, pacy new winger Derensili Fernandes will be hard to beat. Centre-back Jack Whatmough’s recovery from being injured for most of last season could be the essential missing barricade, though much is also expected from Ibane Bowat, signed from Portsmouth.

Leicester City

Jack Rafferty, BBC Radio Leicester

Manager: Russell Martin

Last season: 23rd in the Championship, relegated

Key ins: Liam Cullen (Swansea, undisclosed), Conor Chaplin (Ipswich, free), Wes Burns (Ipswich, undiscosed), Tommy Watson (Brighton, loan), Admir Bristic (Olimpija Ljubljana, undisclosed)

Key outs: Abdul Fatawu (Ipswich, £20m), Ricardo Pereira (released), Harry Winks (Cagliari, undisclosed), Jordan Ayew (released), Jannik Vestergaard (released), Patson Daka (Hamburg, free)

Expectations? Anything other than an immediate return to the Championship will be considered a failure, ideally as champions.

Given they won the league in their only other season in the third tier, finishing second or below would mark the club’s lowest ever league finish. With the squad Russell Martin has assembled, along with some really exciting academy talent, the Blue Army will be hoping for a very successful campaign.

Strengths? Martin appears to have had a really positive transfer window so far. As well as allowing plenty of players to depart, he has added some real talent to his ranks, including a number of players he’s worked with before. Players that he trusts and who know his style well.

The club were desperately in need of a striker, and finally landed Bosnian Admir Bristic, on Tuesday. Those additions, combined with some really exciting academy talent, could produce some magic on the pitch.

Weaknesses? The transfer window isn’t quite shut yet, which will concern some City fans. There are still plenty of rumours about potential departures, including centre back Harry Souttar, who captained the side in the EFL Cup last week.

Given they’ve already lost Ben Nelson to an ACL injury, losing another defender without a suitable replacement could leave them very short at the back.

Difference-maker? The obvious answer would be to name one of the new recruits, such as Cullen, Burns or Chaplin who have proven pedigree at this level. The player I’m most excited about is academy product Sammy Braybrooke.

After a couple of successful loans in League Two last season, the lad dubbed the ‘Leicester Iniesta’ looks more than ready to step up and be a key part of City’s promotion push. He, alongside young right back Jayden Joseph, have been the standout players at the end of pre-season, particularly as he made his first senior start for the club in the EFL Cup.

Leyton Orient

Dave Victor, BBC Radio London

Manager: Richie Wellens

Last season: 20th

Key ins: Jaze Kabria (Grimsby, undisclosed), Nathan Baxter (Watford, undisclosed), Isaac Hayden (QPR, free).

Key outs: Dom Ballard (Bristol City, undisclosed)

Expectations? Improved leadership and character. Higher levels of focus, energy and discipline.

Jaze Kabria to compete to become a third successive Golden Boot winner at the O’s following Charlie Kelman and Dom Ballard.

Evidence of the development of a squad capable of staging a serious promotion challenge.

Strengths? This summer the O’s have signed an experienced keeper as well as a central defender, two full backs and a defence minded midfielder, which should address the frailties at the back that caused so many problems last season.

Weaknesses? Lack of depth in the squad, there maybe insufficient cover in the case of injuries and suspensions.

Difference-maker? Nathan Baxter, Leyton Orient’s first permanent goalkeeper since returning to League One in 2022-23. The 27-year-old should ensure confidence for those in front of him.

Luton Town

Adam Oxley, BBC Three Counties Radio

Manager: Jack Wilshere

Last season: Seventh

Key ins: George Johnston (Bolton, undisclosed), Kasey Palmer (Hull, undisclosed), Callum Marshall (West Ham, undisclosed)

Key outs: Milli Alli (Charlton, undisclosed), Elijah Adebayo (released), Jacob Brown (Reading, free)

Expectations? After the strong finish last season, supporters will expect a promotion challenge from the start.

Strengths? Jack Wilshere has fans fully onside after a patchy start, and they have kept key midfielders Jordan Clark and Liam Walsh. Defender George Johnston led Bolton to promotion last season.

Weaknesses? A potential lack of goals so the performance of new striker Callum Marshall could be key.

Difference-maker? Kasey Palmer’s arrival on loan last season kick-started the season, with a Wembley win and almost reaching the play-offs. He has now signed on a permanent deal, and Wilshere will be hoping Palmer can reproduce that loan form over a whole season.

MK Dons

Paul Dixon, BBC Radio 3CR

Manager: Paul Warne

Last season: Second in League Two (promoted)

Key ins: Ryan Wintle (Cardiff, free), Sam Nombe (Rotherham, free), Charlie Goode (Stevenage, free)

Key outs: Luke Offord (Crewe Alexandra, free), Aaron Nemane (Rotherham, free)

Expectations? The aim is promotion, the expectation is certainly to be in and around the play-off places come the end of season shake up.

Strengths? Paul Warne – four promotions from the division with Rotherham United and Derby County. MK Dons also have huge strength in depth in midfield. Alex Gilbey, Liam Kelly & Ben Wiles were mainstays of the side promoted last term. The club have added in the close season and feasibly have six players vying for three places.

Weaknesses? Defensively the players are very good but Warne needs to work out if a back three or back four is best suited to the personnel. In addition, at the time of writing there is no seasoned back up goalkeeper.

Difference-maker? Ryan Wintle, Cardiff’s player of the year last season knows how to get out of this division and that experience could be vital.

Mansfield Town

Jake Garner, BBC Radio Nottingham

Manager: Nigel Clough

Last season: 10th

Key ins: David McGoldrick (Barnsley, free), Michael Smith (Preston North End, free), Liam Thompson (Derby County, undisclosed)

Key outs: Will Evans (Plymouth Argyle, undisclosed), Aaron Lewis (released)

Expectations? Steady progress remains the aim as Mansfield Town prepare for their third season in League One.

Last season’s 10th place finish proved they can compete comfortably at this level, and an improved league position, coupled with a good cup run, would represent another successful campaign. A push for the play-offs is not beyond the realms of possibility either!

Strengths? Mansfield have strengthened their attack with the arrivals of proven goalscorers David McGoldrick and Michael Smith, helping address an issue that cost them valuable points last season.

The squad’s versatility is also a major asset, with players such as Jordan Bowery and Lucas Akins capable of filling a variety of roles. Bowery especially will probably cover six different roles between now and May.

Weaknesses? The biggest concern is the age profile of the squad and whether key players can stay fit over a long season. Injuries have been a recurring problem for Mansfield in recent years, and several important figures are now in their mid-to-late thirties.

While they still bring a huge amount of quality and experience, there are understandable questions over how they will cope with the demands of another lengthy campaign. That said, age is increasingly just a number in modern football, with McGoldrick’s 18 League One goals for Barnsley last season highlighting exactly that.

Difference-maker? McGoldrick will naturally attract plenty of attention, as will goalkeeper Liam Roberts, but if he stays injury free, Tyler Roberts could be the player who truly makes Mansfield tick.

His quality, agility and creativity made an immediate impact after arriving at the club last season, he looks revitalised and he’s rediscovered his love for football here. A clever pass, a moment of skill or a clinical finish, there will be plenty of magical Roberts moments as he has the ability and confidence to unlock defences. Very excited to see more of him this season.

Notts County

Adam Hassell, BBC Radio Nottingham

Head coach: Martin Paterson

Last season: Fifth in League Two (promoted via the play-offs)

Key ins: Cal Roberts (Scunthorpe, free), Jack Evans (Harrogate, undisclosed), Ollie Cooper (Swansea, loan)

Key outs: Alassana Jatta (Casa Pia, undisclosed), Matty Dennis (Burton, undisclosed), Tom Iorpenda (end of loan)

Expectations? Notts are back in the third tier for the first time since 2015 and fans will largely be happy with simply staying in the division by the end of the season.

Notts became a very workmanlike team under Martin Paterson last campaign, with individuals arguably largely playing above their abilities; the Magpies will need the same again if they’re to compete with some of the big-hitters in League One.

Strengths? Martin Paterson knows how to make his teams hard to beat. They’re resilient and dogged and are able to stay in games effectively.

Jack Evans and Dean Campbell coming into the midfield add a grit that should mean Notts are not nice to play against. They’ll be aggressive and tenacious and hopefully the team will be effective in its approach.

Weaknesses? To put it simply, where are the goals going to come from? Notts lost three of their four top scorers from last season over the summer, and rumours continue to circulate about where Jodi Jones’ future lies. If he leaves, Notts will have lost 58 of their 74 league goals from last season, most notably Alassana Jatta.

Without signing a new out-and-out forward, they could really struggle to find the net regularly.

Difference-maker? All that being said above, they have a player in Cal Roberts who is able to provide a bit of magic from the number 10 position.

He’s also never played as high as League One before, so it could be a risk to be dependent on him for those moments of class. But if he’s able to do it at this level, he could help turn losses into draws and draws into wins and hopefully score the goals to keep Notts in League One by the end of the season.

Oxford United

Jerome Sale, BBC Radio Oxford

Manager: Aaron Ramsey

Last season: 22nd in the Championship, relegated

Key ins: None.

Key outs: Will Lankshear (loan ended), Myles Peart-Harris (loan ended), Przemysław Płacheta (Austin FC, free)

Expectations? The arrival of Aaron Ramsey was taken as a signal that Oxford would be going all out for an instant return to the Championship. But even before his feet were under the desk, the club was placed under a temporary transfer embargo, expected to effectively be in place until January.

The aim will be to stay in contention until then. Four wins from four in pre-season, and with Ramsey getting Oxford back to playing a more energetic, positive brand of football, the mood has lightened a little. Predictions of how the U’s will fare, understandably, vary wildly.

Strengths? Oxford have implemented a retention policy which means they’ve (so far) hung onto most of the contracted top talent, virtually all with Championship experience.

There have been some impressive performances in pre-season from young players who were being blocked last year by a bloated squad of senior players and the difficulties of blooding them in a relegation battle.

Weaknesses? Ramsey has to maintain harmony when at least some of the players he will wish to deploy might have expected their futures to lie elsewhere. He also has to hope that a lack of depth isn’t exposed by any injury crisis, with Oxford looking vulnerable in a couple of positions.

Their only summer signing Frankie Kent (Hearts, free) will miss most of the season with a knee injury.

Difference-maker? Wales international Mark Harris scored 19 goals for Oxford in League One in 2023-24. Oxford need him to recapture that sort of form.

Peterborough United

Ben Stevenson, BBC Radio Cambridgeshire

Manager: Luke Williams

Last season: 18th

Key ins: Thomas O’Connor (Wrexham, free), Evan Weir (Walsall, free), Owura Edwards (Colchester, free), Harrison Jones (Sunderland, undisclosed), Collin Andeng-Ndi (Southend, undisclosed)

Key outs: Archie Collins (released), Kyrell Lisbie (Millwall, undisclosed), Tom Lees (Harrogate, free), Cian Hayes (Rochdale, undisclosed), Abraham Odoh (Salford, undisclosed)

Expectations? The aim from the club’s hierarchy is to challenge for promotion, but given Posh have finished 18th for the past two seasons and are restricted by the current financial position, many fans would be content with avoiding another flirt with relegation.

Strengths? It might be a cliche to say Posh’s biggest asset right now is their manager Luke Williams, but there is more than an element of truth in that statement.

When he was appointed last October, he took a side bottom of the table and turned them into play-off contenders. Their promotion dreams were dashed when his young, injury hit squad hit a wall. The hope this season is that there are less injuries and Williams is able to recruit more players suited to his style of play.

Weaknesses? Having lost some of their best players from last season, some of the fanbase have been quick to bemoan the lack of proven quality coming in to replace them.

Injuries have undoubtably hampered Posh for the past couple of seasons, whilst a lack of experience and physical presence were also issues that haven’t really been addressed yet.

Difference-maker? Peterborough United’s two stand out players play at opposite ends of the pitch.

Goalkeeper Alex Bass is arguably the best goalkeeper the club has had for many years. Striker Harry Leonard has shown he has the potential to follow in the footsteps of some of the great forwards to have played at London Road in recent times. Both players will be key if Peterborough are to achieve their target.

Plymouth Argyle

Brent Pilnick, BBC Sport England

Manager: Tom Cleverley

Last season: Eighth

Key ins: Alex Mitchell (Charlton, undisclosed), Wes Harding (Millwall, free), Murphy Cooper (QPR, undisclosed)

Key outs: Lorent Tolaj (Bristol City, undisclosed)

Expectations? Having been bottom of the table in November the Pilgrims finished the season in eighth place, and for a brief spell on the final day were sixth. Argyle have kept the bulk of the squad and fans will hope for a play-off place as a minimum.

If they can start this season the way they ended the last, who is to say a top two place is not out of reach?

Strengths? The continuity from last season’s squad is key – loanees Alex Mitchell and Wes Harding have joined permanently while only out-of-contract goalkeeper Conor Hazard and top-scorer Lorent Tolaj have left, the latter for a fee in excess of £4m.

Weaknesses? Argyle need more attacking cover. With Tolaj’s departure and a significant injury to Michael Baidoo, coupled with injuries to Caleb Watts and Tegan Finn, Plymouth look light going forward.

Difference-maker? Bim Pepple. The Canadian striker started last season slowly, but by the end had earned his first senior international call-up after scoring 15 goals in his final 20 appearances. With Tolaj leaving he is now the focal point of the Argyle attack and the club need him to hit the ground running.

Reading

Tim Dellor, BBC Radio Berkshire

Manager: Leam Richardson

Last season: 12th

Key ins: Josh Stokes (Bristol City, loan), Udoka Godwin-Malife (Burton, undisclosed), Kyreece Lisbie (Colchester, undisclosed), Jacob Brown (Luton, free)

Key outs: Derrick Williams (retired), Matt Ritchie (retired), Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan (AC Horsens, undisclosed)

Expectations? Modest expectations right now. Reading are starting their fourth consecutive season in League One. With the squad as it is right now, in all probability they will be starting a fifth this time next year. The most optimistic fans will be hoping Reading sneak into the play-offs.

Strengths? Jack Marriott staying fit is central to success. If he plays more than 40 games, Reading will expect to finish in the top six. The issue is his fitness record in recent seasons. Getting more than 30 games from him will be good progress.

Lewis Wing in central midfield dictates everything, and is frequently head and shoulders above his team-mates, bringing real quality to games. Expect big seasons from Paudie O’Connor and Joel Pereira, as well. These experienced players are Championship quality.

Weaknesses? Right now there’s a worrying lack of depth. The last few seasons has seen a string of injured players missing crucial games, and the club ought to fear the worst and hope for the best when it comes to planning for this campaign.

Right now a couple of injuries in defence and attack would leave the squad looking extremely flimsy. Recruiting a robust, athletic striker and central defender will cost money, but would make all the difference.

Difference-maker? This time last year, and the year before, it was Lewis Wing. It’s the same answer this time, though Jack Marriott, if he can stay fit, is also a valid answer now.

Sheffield Wednesday

Rob Staton, BBC Radio Sheffield

Manager: Henrik Pedersen

Last season: 24th in the Championship, relegated

Key ins: Barry Bannan (Millwall, undisclosed), Louie Barry (Aston Villa, undisclosed), Billy Mitchell (Millwall, free), Mason Burstow (Hull, loan), Callum Slattery (Motherwell, free)

Key outs: Pierce Charles (Manchester City, undisclosed), Svante Ingelsson (Stoke City, undisclosed)

Expectations? It’s hard to say what the “expectations” are. Some will expect promotion because the club is under new ownership and there’s a feel good factor around the club.

The reality, though, is this is a squad being built virtually from scratch and whilst some good additions have been brought in, it might not be enough – so far at least – to feel like Wednesday will go up.

Strengths? They have some good footballers. The likes of Bannan, Mitchell, Barry, Slattery, Burstow and Leeds loanee Harry Gray possess a level of technical quality. They can be difference makers on their day.

Plus, keeping the likes of Max Lowe was a big move and captain Liam Palmer won player of the year last time they were in League One.

Weaknesses? Do they have enough grit and ‘grown men’ type players to battle through League One. Last time Wednesday got out of this division they had Michael Smith and Callum Paterson types. League One isn’t like the Championship and you’ve got to know the league.

Henrik Pedersen, who’s under a bit of pressure already after winning only two games last season in an admittedly horrible situation, is also very new to this division.

Difference-maker? When I went to Wednesday’s training camp in Hungary, 17-year-old Will Grainger stood out. He looked electric.

Everton wanted him this summer but he signed a new deal. He looks like a tremendous prospect and I wouldn’t bet against him developing a role this season. Grainger looks like a player capable of playing at a high level.

Stevenage

Steve Watkins, BBC Radio 3CR

Manager: Alex Revell

Last season: Sixth

Key ins: Josh Magennis (Exeter, free), Oliver Sanderson (Fulham, undisclosed), Terry Taylor (Charlton, free), Terence Vancooten (Burton Albion, undisclosed)

Key outs: Charlie Goode (MK Dons, free), Harvey White (Plymouth, free), Dan Sweeney (AFC Wimbledon, free)

Expectations? Wide expectation will be that Stevenage will struggle this season with a limited budget and competing with some of the larger clubs in the division.

Confidence will be high around the club that they can compete as they did last season and use the momentum of reaching the play-off places. Realistically, a top 10 placing would be a huge success.

Strengths? Stevenage have built their success on a solid defence that performs miserly. They also have a phenomenal work-rate through the squad.

Weaknesses? A lack of goals that has been an issue for the past two seasons, could again prove to be their downfall. A lot will be expected from Jamie Reid and new signings Josh Magennis and Ollie Sanderson, but they need to pick up more goals throughout the team.

Difference-maker? Phoenix Paterson. Now in his second season at Stevenage and quite clearly the player that can provide a spark to create goals. A frustrating season last term as he was very much regarded as learning the “Stevenage way”. Signs are that he has served his apprenticeship and is ready to kick on.

Stockport County

Mark Crossley, BBC Radio Manchester

Manager: Jimmy McNulty

Last season: Third

Key ins: Oli Whatmuff (Manchester City, loan), Mikael Mandron (St Mirren, free), Harry Wood (Shelbourne, undisclosed), Ryan Glover (Barnet, undisclosed), Eoghan O’Connell (Barnsley, free), Jason Adigun (Chelmsford City, undisclosed)

Key outs: Corey Addai (Burton Albion, loan), Ben Hinchliffe (retired), Joseph Olowu (Leyton Orient, undisclosed), Odin Bailey (Portsmouth, free), Jayden Fevrier (Blackburn Rovers, undisclosed)

Expectations? Despite the departure of two key figures in boss Dave Challinor and director of football Simon Wilson, there is real positivity heading into a new era at Edgeley Park.

County owner Mark Stott has openly admitted that he “didn’t enjoy” watching the team last season, even though they only missed out on promotion to Bolton at Wembley. Fans have been told to expect “a different approach” under new boss Jimmy McNulty, who led Rochdale back to the EFL last year.

Strengths? Kyle Wootton has shown he will always be a constant threat in front of goal. Tying Ollie Norwood and Ethan Pye down to new deals was vital this summer. Norwood is now the oldest player at the club and has been handed the armband too. He might be 35 but still has the quality to unlock any defence.

Weaknesses? McNulty has never managed in League One but insists he is “completely ready” for the step up. However, it feels likely it could be a season of transition, as he attempts to implement his methods. Expect lots of possession – but do they have enough match winners?

Difference-maker? On-loan Manchester City goalkeeper Oli Whatmuff has followed McNulty to Edgeley Park from Rochdale, following his heroics at Wembley. He certainly doesn’t lack confidence and has been called “a future England number one” by his manager. No pressure.

Wigan Athletic

Josh Watton, BBC Radio Manchester

Manager: Gary Caldwell

Last season: 16th

Key ins: Max Power (Bradford, undisclosed), Sonny Perkins (Leyton Orient, undisclosed)

Key outs: Sam Tickle (Bristol City, undisclosed)

Expectations? It feels like heading into the unknown with Wigan. They have finished 12th or below for the past three seasons, fans see this as a huge underachievement.

Gary Caldwell has made his ambitions clear, he wants to put that run to an end and finish comfortably in the top half, I’m not sure if they have the squad to achieve this on paper, however Caldwell is an expert in working wonders with a lower budget.

Strengths? Max Power has returned to the Latics for a third time, he’ll come in and add some much-needed leadership in the middle of the field, that seemed to be lacking last season.

Weaknesses? Firepower up front, Joe Taylor solved that issue last season but it was only a temporary fix. Their second top scorer last season came from midfield, Callum Wright chipped in with seven and he has also left the club after his loan ended. If they are to achieve their goals this season, they really need to solve their issues in front of goal.

At other end, Sam Tickle has been invaluable for Wigan ever since coming into the first team, I imagine having him in goal has saved them around 10 points a season. He has now moved on to Bristol City and leaves a huge gap which has been filled with Joe Walsh, who has huge shoes to fill.

Difference-maker? Sonny Perkins is the new number nine at Wigan and has a lot of weight on his shoulders.

Gary Caldwell has experience in getting the best out of forwards, turning them into 20 goal a season strikers. If he can work his magic again, Perkins may live up to the expectations which were placed on him whilst rising through the West Ham and Leeds United academy.

Wycombe Wanderers

Sam Avery, BBC Radio Three Counties

Head coach: Michael Duff

Last season: 11th

Key ins: Conor Hazard (Plymouth Argyle, free), Sam Parker (Swansea City, loan), Silko Thomas (Leicester City, free), Cauley Woodrow (Luton Town, undisclosed), Emre Tezgel (Stoke City, loan)

Key outs: Will Norris (Salford City, free), Declan Skura (Walsall, loan), Fin Back (Released), James Tilley (AFC Wimbledon, loan), Alex Lowry (Motherwell, loan)

Expectations? Fans are generally enthused about the prospect of a full season under Michael Duff, given the upturn in form following his appointment last season. As a result, there is optimism that the play-offs could be within reach. Having said that, it looks like a much tougher League One than last season.

Strengths? Continuity from last season. Before the injuries to some key players in March, the Chairboys were on track for a really strong finish to last season.

Fred Onyedinma, Dan Harvie and Cauley Woodrow were some of Wycombe’s top performers in that time and all signed new contracts – or signed permanently in Woodrow’s case!

Weaknesses? At the time of writing, Emre Tezgel is the only out and out striker that the club have signed this summer, leaving a lot of pressure on him to fulfil the shortcomings from Wycombe’s high expected goal rate last season.

But, the biggest challenge facing the club this season might be the stadium! The terrace has been partially closed for structural repairs, leaving fans concerned about the effect that could have on the home atmosphere.

Difference maker? The obvious pick would be Fred Onyedinma after winning Supporters’ and Players’ player of last season. But, Ewan Henderson might just be the one to look out for. He was playing well last season until a couple of injuries before the New Year, but has looked really sharp again during pre-season.

You can catch all the action from the opening weekend of the EFL right here on the BBC Sport website with live text coverage across all three days, starting with Wolves v Blackburn Rovers on Friday at 20:00 BST.