Non League & Football League Paper

#nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth... The NLP Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch are joined by Non-League Show legend Tim Fuell to run through the latest issues and talking points from across Non-League. The guys discuss the importance of the international break window for Non-League, as it provides the perfect opportunity to shine a spotlight on the lower leagues. Additionally, we dive in-depth into the pints on terraces debate. Sparked by Prime Minister Andy Burnham after he argued football fans are unfairly ‘singled out’ compared to other sports, the change to the law would see supporters able to enjoy a pint in the stands again if the 40-year plus alcohol ban is lifted. Is this a welcome change, or are there still reasons to keep the ban in place? Elsewhere, the trio give their reactions to the FA Cup third qualifying round draw, with a focus on some of the most intriguing ties for the next stage of the competition, including SE Dons, who are still flying in their debut campaign. Stafford Rangers produced one of the shocks of the second qualifying round by coming from behind to beat National League North leaders Hereford and will face Halesowen Town next. Finally, there is a discussion on the recent surge in crowd funding by Non-League teams to support the implementation of artificial 3G/4G pitches. With such expenses required to install these pitches, the guys debate whether they are worth it for Non-League clubs. You can subscribe to The Non-League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link (www.thenonleaguefootballpaper.com/subscriptions/) OR by scanning the QR code shown throughout the video! Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en Listen to the Non-League Goalmouth via Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail image credit: Garry Griffiths & Alamy #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth #facup

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL. The trio discuss the latest news coming out of the Weston Homes Stadium as Peterborough United have parted company with manager Luke Williams, following their 2-0 defeat to Doncaster Rovers last weekend. Williams’ tenure lasted just under a year, with a record of 17 wins from 47 games, with just two of those victories coming in their last 22 outings. Karl Robinson, who has most recently been in charge of Salford City, is heavily linked with taking the reins at The Posh. Over at Deepdale, Preston North End’s search for a new manager has reportedly been shortlisted to just three names: Robbie Keane, Tom Cleverley and Leighton Baines. Keane’s was most recently managing Hungarian side Ferencváros, while Cleverley is currently under contract at Plymouth Argyle. Baines, meanwhile, is David Moyes’ assistant manager at Everton, and could make his first permanent managerial appointment with Preston. Last weekend saw the return of two heated local derbies as Millwall hosted West Ham for the first fixture between the two sides in 22 years. The Irons were forced to fight back from two goals down to clinch a late point in a 2-2 draw at The Den. Elsewhere, Wolves picked up all three points in the Black Country derby against West Brom. The two sides were only separated by Fer Lopez’s early second-half goal, capitalising on a mistake from Nat Phillips to earn his side a first home derby victory over West Brom in 15 years. Stoke City’s excellent run of form continued with a 2-1 win at home to Sheffield United. The Potters moved up to 7th in the table with a fourth consecutive victory from their last five league games. In League One, Bradford City maintained their top spot with a third straight win in a 1-0 away win at Luton Town. Interestingly, the Bantams have only scored seven goals from as many league games this season, but have won more than any other team in the division with five victories. Finally, in League Two, Salford City are hitting their stride after a disappointing start, with Peter Cklamovski’s side winning three of their last four league outings. You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscriptions/ Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Listen to this episode on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #football #soccer #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #preston #westham #peterboroughunited #millwall #wolverhamptonwanderers #westbrom #stokecity #bradfordcity #salfordcity

#nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth... Executive Editor Jon Couch is joined by NLP Midlands correspondent Andy Mitchell and Matthew Nash. The trio discussed the midweek National League action and how well the newcomers have started this campaign. AFC Fylde and Kidderminster Harriers continued their flying starts to the season as the Coasters saw off Harrogate Town whilst Kiddy defeated Gateshead. How far can they both go this season? Worthing also picked up a win over league debutants Hornchurch – both sides currently operating near the top half of the table. Boreham Wood’s unbeaten start to the season continued with a late win over Scunthorpe United. Can anyone stop their charge towards the title? Solihull Moors picked up a much-needed first win of the season over Barrow as Andy discusses their situation and tough start. Finally, the guys turn to the weekend’s FA Cup second round qualifying action. Walton & Hersham are looking to put a bad start to life at Step 2 aside when they take on Horsham. SE Dons face Chichester City as they continue to progress in their debut campaign. And it will be a busy day in Redcar on Saturday as Town take on Darlington to be shown live on BBC, and Athletic are in action against Macclesfield. Plus, the panel send their support and best wishes to former Redditch United boss Mike Fowler following his brain tumour diagnosis. Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en Listen to the Non-League Goalmouth via Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail image credit: Alamy | Steve McLellan & Aidan Wilson: AFC Fylde #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth #facup #afcfylde #kidderminster #borehamwood

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL. The trio discuss the big news coming out of Deepdale as Paul Heckingbottom parts ways with Preston North End following six defeats from their first seven games in the league this season. This comes after spending a club record £15 million on new players in the summer. There are also reports that Saudi-American businessman Amr Zedan is in advanced talks to take over for £12m-£15m from the Hemmings family. Are Preston in trouble this season? Or will they turn it around? West Ham continued their strong form with a statement 6-0 win at Wrexham. The Hammers are now flying whilst the Red Dragons are off to a slow start. Is the title now West Ham’s to lose, and is Phil Parkinson still the right man for the job, or does he have enough credit in the bank? Elsewhere, Southampton’s Cyle Larin is on form again. The striker, who joined on loan from Mallorca last January before making the permanent move to the Saints for £2.4 million, now tops the Championship scoring charts with seven goals. Despite a points deduction holding them back initially, can Larin fire the Saints to promotion this time around? In League One, there was a first win of the season for Wycombe Wanderers under interim manager Tom Housnell, beating Leyton Orient 3-2 following Michael Duff's departure after a five-game winless start, while newly-promoted Cambridge United moved up to 4th in the table with a 2-1 win over Reading. Finally, in League Two, Barnet moved to the top of the pile with a 2-1 victory against Accrington Stanley, and York City jumped up to third with a convincing 4-0 win at home to Swindon Town. You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscriptions/ Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Listen to this episode on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #football #soccer #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #preston #westham #wrexham #southampton #wycombewanderers #cambridgeunited #barnet #yorkcity

On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth... Executive Editor Jon Couch is joined by Non-League Show legend Tim Fuell and our north-east guru Mark Carruthers. The guys discuss the FA Cup second round qualifying draw and some of the stand-out ties, including Lower Breck at home to Chester and FA Vase winners AFC Stoneham’s trip to Torquay United. Mark explains how Redcar has FA Cup fever after Redcar Town drew Darlington, while Redcar Athletic will take on giant-killers Macclesfield. We also give our views on FA Cup replays – which still stand in the qualifying rounds. Boreham Wood came from behind to win again! Luke Garrard’s side saw off fancied Carlisle United last weekend. It’s early days, but are Wood becoming the ones to beat in the National League title race? It’s been a tough start for Gateshead and Solihull Moors – can they turn it around? And the team look ahead to the FA Trophy and FA Vase this coming weekend. Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en Listen to the Non-League Goalmouth via Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail images credit: Alamy Images #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth #borehamwood #chester #macclesfield #darlington #facup #fatrophy #gateshead #solihullmoors

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL. This week the chaps catch up to discuss Leicester City’s latest defeat in League One – a 4-0 home drubbing by Oxford United. What is going wrong at the Foxes and can Russell Martin turn it around? It’s a similar post-relegation story for Burnley in the Championship, who have started slowly this season. With Zian Flemming sold to Ipswich Town, we discuss the worrying lack of firepower in the Clarets’ frontline. Can Jamie Vardy provide the spark? It’s all change again at Wycombe Wanderers with the departure of Michael Duff. What is next for the Chairboys? John runs us through his midweek trip to Watford against Preston North End – and we talk Nathan Jones’ post-match comments! You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscr... Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Listen to this episode on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6r6n... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast... Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #football #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #leicestercity #oxfordunited #burnley #wycombewanderers #watford #preston

On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth...   Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch are joined by Non-League Show presenter Tim Fuell to catch up with The NLP team.   The long-running debate around the 3pm Saturday kick-off TV blackout was the talk of social media over the weekend.   The guys give their view on the matter and point out that any discussions need to involve the Non-League game. Would scrapping it risk losing the next generation of Non-League fans?   Abdul Abdulmalik hit the headlines after his reported £1.5million move from Boreham Wood to Swedish outfit Djurgardens IF. We ask if that record-breaking fee highlights the ever-increasing profile of the National League and the importance of sell-ons?   Ebbsfleet United are yet to kick a ball in anger. They're back in action this weekend after the National League lifted their suspension. We go over how important it will be for the Fleet fans to watch their side again.

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL. As the transfer window slams shut, the team catches up on whose summer business has caught the eye across the EFL. Middlesbrough may have lost Hayden Hackney to Everton, but with his transfer fee and the sell-on banked from Morgan Rogers' move to Chelsea from Aston Villa, Boro have been able to reinvest wisely. Will Lankshear is already in the goals to justify his £10m fee, while the arrival on loan of Amario Cozier-Duberry should excite fans. Swansea City lost Ethan Galbraith to Stoke City, but they've added Ross Stewart on a free and also kept hold of top scorer Zan Vipotnik. Elijah Just has joined from Motherwell - do the Swans look a different animal this season? Bristol City have also done some shrewd business with the signings of Dom Ballard from Leyton Orient and Plymouth frontman Lorent Tolaj. But it was a tough deadline day for Sheffield United as fans' favourite Callum O'Hare was snared by rivals Wrexham. Lots of players are stepping up a level, including Femi Azeez and Tyrese Shade - and can Davis Keillor-Dunn get back to making an impact on loan at Sheffield Wednesday?

#nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth... Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch are joined by the Non-League Paper’s North-East correspondent, Mark Carruthers, to talk through all the latest in Non-League! The trio dive into the transfer saga surrounding Boreham Wood star forward Abdul Abdulmalik. After having multiple bids rejected, Abdulmalik requested a move away from the club this week to pursue other opportunities. As a result, this prompted a response from chairman Danny Hunter on the matter. Abdulmalik was left out of the squad for the recent clash with Forest Green Rovers and remains unavailable for selection. Should Boreham Wood let Abdulmalik leave the club, or are they right to hold firm? Elsewhere, AFC Fylde striker Danny Ormerod has completed a move to League One outfit Peterborough United. After holding firm on the transfer fee, it’s reported that the 20-year-old has joined the Posh for £600,000. Looking back to last weekend, in the battle between two of the National League’s unbeaten teams, it was Sutton United who overcame Hartlepool United with a 2-1 victory at the VBS Community Stadium. With three wins from three for Chris Agutter’s side, they travel to face Gateshead looking to maintain their perfect record, while Lee Clark’s Hartlepool will be aiming to bounce back from defeat when they take on Eastleigh at home. Both fixtures form part of a bumper Friday night of National League action, with the Bank Holiday Monday programme following just three days later. There’s also a reflection on the recent FA Cup action, with the preliminary round now complete and the first qualifying round draw made earlier this week. Attention now turns to the FA Trophy, with its first qualifying round taking place this weekend. Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en Listen to the Non-League Goalmouth via Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail images credit: Alamy Images #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth #facup #fatrophy #borehamwood

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy to talk through all the latest in the EFL. Beginning with Carabao Cup action, League One side Bradford City progressed to the next round with a penalty shootout win over Burnley, while Peterborough United beat a second-string Watford side 5-1 at Vicarage Road, making it three wins from four games for the Posh in all competitions. It was a difficult night for the other Championship sides, as Birmingham City were knocked out after a 6-1 home defeat to Brentford, Preston North End were comprehensively beaten 4-0 by Everton, and Charlton Athletic bowed out after a 5-1 loss to Tottenham Hotspur. Looking ahead to the third round ties, there could be a potential upset on the cards as Millwall host Newcastle United. There are two guaranteed League One teams in the last 16, with Leyton Orient taking on Bradford, while Peterborough host Barnsley. With just one week to go until the transfer window closes, will Sheffield Wednesday secure the signing of Jamie Vardy? The 39-year-old striker is odds-on to return to his boyhood club, 24 years after his departure from the Owls. There are plenty of clubs scrambling for the signature of Anis Mehmeti. The Albanian midfielder is leaving Ipswich Town, with Derby County, Birmingham City, Wrexham and others linked with a potential £9 million move for the 25-year-old. Stephen Mfuni, the 18-year-old Manchester City centre-half who spent part of last season on loan at Watford, was reportedly meant to join Coventry City on loan this week but backed out due to concerns over gametime. A host Championship clubs are interested in signing the youngster, but time will tell who comes out on top. Elsewhere, Peterborough United have signed striker Danny Ormerod from National League side AFC Fylde. The transfer fee is reportedly around £600,000 for the 20-year-old. Finally, looking ahead to this weekend’s fixtures, West Ham travel to Watford in a high-pressure game for Nuno Espirito Santo. The Hammers’ start to life in the Championship has been anything but smooth sailing, picking up just one point in their opening two fixtures so far. Could we see a managerial change at the London Stadium should they fail to pick up three points against the Hornets? Two sides also struggling for early-season form face off against each other as Norwich City host Burnley. Both teams were pipped as pre-season favourites for a shot at promotion, but with one point between them, it’s shaping up to be an interesting encounter at Carrow Road. In League One, Russell Martin returns to one of his former clubs, in MK Dons, as Leicester City go in search of a much-needed result after picking up one point from their first two outings. While still early in the season, Sheffield Wednesday’s quest to bounce back at the first time of asking took a hit following their 1-0 defeat at home to Bradford last weekend. They host Bromley in a game which could be important for Owls boss Henrik Pedersen. With many tipping them as favourites for promotion, Salford City’s start has been anything but reflective of that. Two defeats from two, with just one goal scored under new manager Peter Cklamovski, means they welcome Shrewsbury Town to Moor Lane, who themselves will be looking for their first point of the season. At the opposite end of the table, first-placed Barnet host second-placed Crewe Alexandra as both teams look to maintain their perfect start to the 2026/27 campaign. You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscr... Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Listen to this episode on both Spotify and App

#nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer   On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth...   Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch are joined by Tim Fuell to talk through all the latest in Non-League!   The trio discuss The NLP’s new collaboration with The Football Pyramid Partnership, with founding partner Tim joining the Non-League Goalmouth team on a more regular basis.   The Football Pyramid Partnership aims to provide non-league clubs, competitions and national regulatory bodies with advice and support on operational, financial, commercial and regulatory essentials.   There is also a look at the importance of welcoming the next generation of Non-League fans while recognising the safeguarding challenges clubs face.   The conversation follows Matt’s recent column questioning whether blanket restrictions on younger supporters could risk alienating future fans, and whether there are other ways to protect young people without limiting their involvement in the game.   The FA Trophy and FA Vase also come under discussion after Isuzu UK announced it will no longer sponsor the competitions, with its title partnership ending after the 2025-26 campaign.   The trio reflect on Isuzu’s impact across Non-League and the importance of strong sponsorship at this level of the game.   Finally, the guys look back on the early-season action, including Hornchurch’s impressive start to the season and their latest 2-1 victory over Barrow, which featured a stunning goal from defender Joe Kizzi.   For more information on our partnership with The Football Pyramid Partnership, see here: https://www.thenonleaguefootballpaper...   Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en Listen to the Non-League Goalmouth via Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail image credit: Shutterpress   #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL. In the Championship, Will Lankshear fired home a brace, which included a stoppage-time winner, as Middlesbrough made a winning start to their 2026/27 campaign with a 2-1 victory over Lincoln City. It was a difficult start for the relegated sides as Wolves kicked off the season with a 2-2 draw at home to Blackburn Rovers, while West Ham and Burnley played out a thrilling 2-2 draw of their own, as the Clarets netted two late goals, courtesy of Zian Flemming, to rescue a point at Turf Moor. Southampton suffered a 2-1 defeat away at Watford in their opening fixture, while QPR sit at the top of the table after a 3-1 victory away at Portsmouth, with Ilias Chair scoring twice for Julien Stéphan’s side. In transfer news, the race for Rennes midfielder Jordan James continues to heat up. The Welsh international featured on loan for Leicester City last season, and there are a number of the division’s heavy hitters vying for his signature, including Middlesbrough, West Ham, Wolves and Burnley. Russell Martin’s first game in charge of Leicester City got off to an indifferent start as they were held to a 1-1 draw away at Notts County. Will it be the same old, same old, or will fortunes change for the Foxes this season? Luton Town and Reading played out the game of the weekend as the Hatters claimed all three points in a thrilling 4-3 win at the Select Car Leasing Stadium. Luton were 3-1 down at half-time after Jack Marriott’s hat-trick for the Royals, but came back and won it through Gideon Kodua in the 96th minute. Elsewhere, Bromley’s first-ever game in League One ended with a 1-0 victory over Barnsley at Oakwell. In League Two, there was a statement win for Barnet, who beat pre-season favourites Salford City 3-1 at the Hive with Oisin Gallagher, Charlie Lakin and Kabongo Tshimanga on the scoresheet for the Bees. Salford boss Peter Cklamovski hit back at his side in his post-match interview, saying that he was “embarrassed” by the performance. Another of the pre-season favourites were beaten, with York City winning 3-2 against Bristol Rovers at the LNER to ease the pressure on Scott Lindsey. There were also big wins for Newport County, who beat Rochdale 3-0 at Rodney Parade to go joint-top of the league with Walsall, who picked up their first three points of the campaign with a 3-0 win over Gillingham. You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscr... Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Listen to this episode on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6r6n... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast... Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #football #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #westham #wolves #middlesbrough #burnley #southampton #leicestercity #lutontown #yorkcity #newportcounty #walsall #salford #barnet

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to look ahead to the start of the 2026/27 EFL season. The trio delve into the title favourites across the Championship, League One and League Two, and which teams might be considered dark horses for a promotion spot at the end of the campaign, based on the bookies latest odds. West Ham United currently lead the way in the Championship – Jarrod Bowen and Nuno Espírito Santo’s commitment to the club has them as 7/4 favourites to bounce back to the Premier League at the first time of asking. Wolverhampton Wanderers are the next favourites at 11/2, with Cesar Peixoto taking over from Rob Edwards and leading a team stacked with Premier League talent, including the returning Raul Jimenez and Kieran Trippier. Last season’s play-off finalists Middlesbrough have had a big summer spending spree, including the arrival of Will Lankshear, which has them at 9/1. Meanwhile, newly-relegated Burnley follow close behind at 11/1 as Nicky Hayen takes over from Scott Parker as manager. Tonda Eckert’s Southampton side are tipped at 14/1, perhaps a reflection on whether the Saints can put their ‘Spygate’ controversy behind them heading into the new season, while Wrexham, Norwich City and Millwall are considered to be dark horses for a chance at promotion. In League One, Leicester City are the bookies’ favourites for a return to the second tier at 5/2, but will their financial issues and potential sale impact Russell Martin’s tenure of the Foxes? Another team keen to bounce back is Sheffield Wednesday, and they will be boosted by their new ownership, which brought an end to Dejphon Chansiri’s control of the club. The Owls currently sit at 6/1 ahead of the start of their League One campaign. Other contenders in the third tier include Jack Wilshere’s Luton Town, Plymouth Argyle with Tom Cleverley at the helm and Huddersfield Town under the stewardship of Martin Drury. Finally, in League Two, Salford City are the odds-on favourites to claim the title. New manager Peter Cklamovski’s has brought in Macauley Langstaff and Luke Molyneux, which has boosted their chances of achieving promotion to League One for the first time. Steve Evans’ Bristol Rovers are 15/2 after a strong finish to last season, with Chesterfield next at 17/2. Barnet and York City are both 10/1, although the Minstermen will hope the departure of Stuart Maynard and arrival of Scott Lindsey does not disrupt their promotion push. Port Vale are 12/1 and will be looking to bounce straight back under Jon Brady. The Valiants will be hoping his first full season in charge can deliver another promotion. You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscriptions/ Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en Listen to this episode on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6r6n8XsVY3FVBpsuGNWDGS Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-flp-podcast-efl-fixtures-drop-early-big-clashes/id1896797609?i=1000774210724 Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #football #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #westham #wolves #middlesbrough #burnley #southampton #wrexham #norwichcity #millwall #leicestercity #sheffieldwednesday #luton #plymouth #huddersfieldtown #salford #bristolrovers #chesterfield #portvale #barnet #yorkcity

On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth... Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch are joined by the Non-League Paper’s North-East correspondent, Mark Carruthers, to talk through all the latest in Non-League! The trio reflect on a dramatic opening day across the National League, as newly-promoted Hornchurch beat Kidderminster Harriers 3-0, while Hartlepool United got their campaign off to a perfect start with a 2-0 win over Barrow. There was another big opening day upset in Cumbria as Carlisle United fell to a 3-2 defeat at home to Worthing. Hebburn Town began their National League North campaign with a 3-1 victory over Southport, while Dagenham & Redbridge got off to a perfect start, securing a 1-0 win away at Dorking Wanderers courtesy of Kayden Harrack’s early goal. Elsewhere, Weymouth recorded a big crowd as they bested Dorchester 5-1, while Bracknell Town had a start to forget, losing 7-0 to Plymouth Parkway before bouncing back in midweek against Gloucester City with a 3-2 win at home. Finally, we look ahead to another weekend of thrilling Non-League action across the National Leagues, while the Isuzu FA Trophy and FA Vase return for the 2026-27 campaign with their preliminary rounds. Elsewhere, Harborough Town host Morecambe, Truro City make the trip to Chelmsford City, and Eastbourne Borough welcome Brentwood Town as they look to maintain their strong start to life at Step 3. Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en Listen to the Non-League Goalmouth via Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail images credit: Richard Parkes/Media Image #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth

On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth... Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch are joined by the Non-League Paper’s North-East correspondent, Mark Carruthers, to talk through all the latest in Non-League! The trio review the National League, National League North & National League South fixtures for upcoming 2026/27 season, including a look at the opening round of matches, the new boys who have been promoted and relegated into the divisions, and discussing which sides we think could be lining up for a promotion race, even at this very early stage. You can subscribe to The Non-League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link (https://www.thenonleaguefootballpaper...) OR by scanning the QR code at the end of the video! Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en Listen to the Non-League Goalmouth via Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL. The trio take a closer look at the opening day clashes across the Championship, League One and League Two for the upcoming 2026/27 season following the fixture release on Thursday. Two of last season’s relegated Premier League clubs will battle it out on the opening weekend as Burnley hosts West Ham United. The Clarets are still managerless after their bid to secure the services of Wales head coach Craig Bellamy fell through, with Rob Edwards and Steve Cooper rumoured to be next in line for the job. Wolves will kick off the new season by hosting Blackburn Rovers at Molineux, as new boss César Peixoto looks to guide the West Midlands club back to the top flight following their last-placed finish last season. Elsewhere, Watford’s managerial cycle continues with the appointment of Alessio Dionisi. The Italian, who was most recently at Empoli, moves away from Italy for the first time in his managerial career. There are some thrilling clashes for the newly promoted sides in the division, as Cardiff City host Wrexham in the final game of the opening weekend, while Lincoln City travel to play-off finalists Middlesbrough, and Bolton Wanderers welcome Preston North End to the Tough Sheet Stadium. In League One, Oxford United will start life under new manager Aaron Ramsey with a home clash against MK Dons. Leicester City will be hoping to bounce back at the first time of asking following their relegation from the Championship with Russell Martin at the helm. The Foxes are away at Notts County on the opening day of the season. And in League Two, York City and Rochdale begin their return to the Football League as the Minstermen host Bristol Rovers at the LNER Community Stadium, while Dale kick off Ian Watson’s tenure as manager by travelling to Newport County. To find out more about next season’s fixtures, visit here: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/latest... You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscr... Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #football #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #burnley #wolves #watford #lincolncity #cardiffcity #wrexham #boltonwanderers #oxfordunited #leicestercity #yorkcity #rochdal

On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth... Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch are joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy to discuss the Non-League roots at the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The trio share their thoughts ahead of tournament opener tonight, England’s chances at achieving glory, their past memories of the competition, and discuss the players who have gone on to represent their countries at the highest level after plying their trade in Non-League. They discuss The NLP’s Non-League World Cup XI shown in last Sunday’s paper featuring the likes of Ollie Watkins, David Raya, Che Adams (https://www.thenonleaguefootballpaper...) and look back on the past success stories such as Jamie Vardy, Stuart Pearce and many more! Elsewhere, Southend United have appointed former Newcastle United and England international midfielder Kieron Dyer as Kevin Maher’s successor. The 47-year-old will make his managerial debut with the Shrimpers after coaching spells at Ipswich Town and Chesterfield. Another ex-England international Rob Lee has taken up a new role as Hornchurch’s Director of Football, ahead of their first-ever National League campaign. It will be the first permanent role at a club the former Charlton Athletic and Newcastle United player has taken since his retirement, returning to the club where he began his playing career. You can subscribe to The Non-League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link (https://www.thenonleaguefootballpaper...) OR by scanning the QR code at the end of the video! Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #southendunited #hornchurch #england #olliewatkins #cheadams #davidraya #worldcup #worldcup2026

On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth... Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch reflect on their favourite moments from the 2025/26 Non-League campaign. The duo discuss topics such as the thrilling National League title race between York and Rochdale, and Macclesfield’s dream FA Cup run, as well as their stars of the season, including managers like Jim McNulty, Stuart Maynard, Luke Garrard and Craig Mahon, and players like Abdul Abdulmalik, Ollie Pearce, Zak Brunt and Gus Scott-Morris. The managerial merry-go-round is in full flow. Former Gateshead manager Rob Elliot has taken up a new role in charge of Carlisle United, replacing Mark Hughes. Meanwhile, Paul Wotton has landed the Kidderminster Harriers job and Southend United’s search for a new boss continues following the departure of Kevin Maher. Finally, the pair look ahead to this summer’s World Cup in North America, focusing on players and coaches with Non-League roots and their journeys from the grassroots game to football’s biggest stage. You can subscribe to The Non-League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link (https://www.thenonleaguefootballpaper...) OR by scanning the QR code at the end of the video! Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #yorkcity #rochdaleafc #macclesfield #gateshead #carlisleunited #kidderminsterharriers #southendunited #kidderminsterharriers

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL. The trio reflect on a dramatic week of play-off final action across the EFL, as Hull City secured promotion to the Premier League with a late winner against Middlesbrough, while Bolton Wanderers and Notts County enjoyed their own Wembley success to book their spot in the Championship and League One, respectively. The 'Spygate' saga continues to develop as Southampton owner Dragan Solak has thrown his support behind manager Tonda Eckert, despite the controversy surrounding their dismissal from the play-off final. Eckert also released a public apology to Southampton fans, in which he took full responsibility for the scandal. Following their play-off final defeat to Bolton, Stockport County manager David Challinor has stepped away from his role after five years in charge at the Hatters. Finally, the guys take a look at the relegated sides returning to the EFL, namely West Ham United, who announced that they are continuing with manager Nuno Espirito Santo for the upcoming 2026/27 Championship campaign. You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscr... Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... #football #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #playoffs #southampton #middlesbrough #hullcity #boltonwanderers #stockportcounty #nottscounty #westham #footballanalysis #footballnews

In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL. The trio delve into the big news of the week, which saw Southampton expelled from the play-off final over the spying scandal which has dominated the days leading up to the 'richest game in football'. Hull City will instead face the newly-reinstated Middlesbrough in the final, and we look ahead to that game, plus the League One and League Two play-off finals also taking place at Wembley over the bank holiday weekend. You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscr... Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... #football #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #playoffs #southampton #middlesbrough #boltonwanderers #stockportcounty #salfordcity #nottscounty #footballanalysis #footballnews