Football Season Guide

Forest Green Rovers created yet more history after reaching the third tier of English football for the first time since their formation in 1889. They were runaway leaders for much of the season under head coach Rob Edwards and deservedly lifted the title despite a severe case of the promotion jitters in the final two months. Owner Dale Vince deserves his share of the plaudits and has overseen a transformation of the club since taking over in 2010. Sadly the celebrations lasted less than a week before Edwards left to take over at Watford, with Vince accusing him of going behind his back. A fortnight later Notts County head coach Ian Burchnall was appointed as his successor. Burchnall will have to rebuild the squad with most of the key men having left this summer. Wing-backs Kane Wilson and Nicky Cadden are huge losses following moves to Bristol City and Barnsley respectively. Midfield playmaker Ebou Adams has joined Cardiff City whilst attacking midfielder Jack Aitchison has returned to parent club Barnsley. Burchnall will also be without striker and leading goalscorer Matt Stevens for the rest of 2022 as he recovers from an ACL injury. The experienced Jamille Matt remains at the club but it could be a big step up to League One for him. The return of the creative Reece Brown from Huddersfield Town is one of several new additions at the New Lawn and is certainly the most exciting having made his name with the Green Devils. Given the circumstances this certainly looks like being one of the most challenging campaigns since Vince took over the reigns.