League Two 2013/2014 Preview,

Come one, come all as The Daggers Scale takes its annual stab at trying to analyse how each of the 24 teams in League Two will do in the coming season. This year there's more information than ever with analysis, transfers, fan opinions and odds all waiting for you to consume. So sit tight and enjoy the smorgasbord of information I've put together for your enjoyment. As always feel free to agree or disagree with my opinion.

Accrington Stanley

Players In: Rob Atkinson (CB), Shay McCartan (ST), Nicky Hunt (RB), Josh Windass (MF), Danny Webber (ST).

Players Out: Romuald Boco, Bohan Dixon, Charlie Bennett, Amine Linganzi, Aiden Chippendale, Tom Eckersley, Craig Lindfield, Lee Molyneux, Padraig Amond.

Key man Boco has left.
www.bbc.co.uk

So we kick off with Accrington, and out of everyone this season I fear for them most. With minimal transfer incomings and some key players in the likes of Romauld Boco heading away from the Crown Ground, it could be a baptism of fire for James Beattie who takes the hotseat for his first managerial foray. With no real long term successor since legend John Coleman’s departure in January 2012, Stanley will be hoping Beattie provides the results and security needed to ensure the Lancastrian outfit remain in the Football League. New signing Danny Webber will be key if they’re to maintain their Football League status, but without a talismanic player like Francis Jeffers, whom they coaxed into joining last year and whose performances ultimately saw Stanley survive; it could be a long season ahead. 

What the fan says: @Stanley_OSC: "A slightly different summer for Stanley with James Beattie taking over the managerial hot-seat. The first thing James has done is to get the majority of the squad signed back up, whilst bringing in a mixture of youth and experience including Rob Atkinson and Danny Webber who will give us more steel and spark. As always for Stanley it’s a case of defying the odds, but I think we will surprise a few teams and I’ll be looking for a top half finish come the end of the season."

Murphy's Best Bet: Accrington to finish bottom, best priced 7/1 at Ladbrokes.

AFC Wimbledon

Players In: George Porter (ST), Callum Kennedy (LB), Charlie Sheringham (ST), Barry Fuller (RB), Chris Arthur (LM), Ross Worner (GK), George Francombe (RB), Ashley Bayes (GK), Andy Frampton (LB), Max Noble (LW), Michael Smith (Loan ST). 

Players Out: Jason Prior, Warren Cummings, Huw Johnson, Mat Mitchell-King, Rashid Yussuf, Stacy Long, Frankie Merrifield, Pim Balkenstein, Chris Hussey, Kelly Youga, Curtis Osano, Mikhael Jaimez-Ruiz, Louis Harris.

After last season’s brush with relegation, the Dons will be hoping for a calmer campaign this time around. The main problem for Neal Ardley’s side was their excessively leaky defence, which conceded 76 goals through the course of the season, the highest in the league. Former Gills left back Andy Frampton and Norwich right back George Francombe have been brought in to address that problem as the Dons look to tighten their ship. Key forward Jack Midson remains and will be assisted by the signing of Burnley forward George Porter on loan. The London based outfit will be looking for a season of improvement this time around with a stronger squad, but whether that will materialise I'm not so sure.

What the fan says: @MattMightSay: "After a tense 2012-2013 season that would almost certainly have seen us relegated were it not for Neal Ardley’s squad overall, things are now looking brighter at Kingsmeadow. Expect the Dons to play with a different style to last year as Ardley tries out a new formation. For Dons fans though, most seem confident of a mid-table finish, and that should keep most of us smiling. But most importantly this season, we should learn more details of our return to Merton. Fingers crossed."

Murphy's Best Bet: Jack Midson League Two top goalscorer 25/1 at Coral.

Bristol Rovers

Players In: Steve Mildenhall (GK), John-Joe O’Toole (MF).

Players Out: Scott Bevan, Joe Anyinsah, Adam Virgo, Oumare Tounkara, Ross Staley.

Despite not making much of a splash in the transfer window, Rovers are looking quietly confident of ending their disastrous spell in the basement division of English football. The signing of creative midfielder John-Joe O’Toole from Colchester by boss John Ward looks likely to be a masterstroke. O’Toole lit up the league in his loan spell at The Mem last season and alongside promising midfielders Oliver Norburn and youngster Ellis Harrison the trio could prove potent. Despite that, Rovers have been dealt an early blow with the news that Fabien Broghammer will miss the majority of the campaign. Regardless, Rovers have a squad that should be towards the top half of the table with a probable play-off push on the cards. 

What the fan says: @HarddToBeatt: "We have a very young squad and while that is an exciting prospect for Gasheads, it means we’re all quite reluctant to make bold predictions. However the permanent signings of Steve Mildenhall and John-Joe O’Toole to strengthen the spine of the team has given us real belief. If we can shake off the injury curse we endured last season then I think the top 7 is a realistic aim. We have a few starlets on our hands, but look out for homegrown winger Ellis Harrison who signed a new 3 year deal this summer. He’s got pace and skill, he’s direct and he isn't afraid to shoot, he could become very important for us."

Murphy's Best Bet: Bristol Rovers to make the play-offs available at 10/3 with Ladbrokes.

Burton Albion

Players In: Rory Delap (RW), Rene Howe (ST), Chris Hussey (LB), Alex MacDonald (RM), Phil Edwards (CB), Ian Sharps (CB), Michael Symes (ST), Adam Reed (CM).

Players Out: John McGrath, Stuart Tomlinson, Nathan Stanton, Calvin Zola, Aaron Webster, Cleveland Taylor, Evan Garnett, Adi Yussuf, Jack Green, Jacques Maghoma, Andy Corbett.

Maghoma
www.teamtalk.com

After last season’s play off agony, the Brewers will be looking to go one better this time around. With the impressive signings of Rene Howe, Michael Symes and Ian Sharps to replace the outgoing Nathan Stanton, Jacques Maghoma and Calvin Zola; Gary Rowett has recruited well through the summer. Even with key losses the Brewers retain a strong squad that should be capable of going for the play-offs and possibly automatic promotion once more. 

What the fan says: @AdamBAFCdrew: "Last season was regarded by Burton fans as the greatest ever. We were one of the favourites to go down but ultimately finished 4th before losing out in the play-offs. Whether we can do it a second time, without Jacques Maghoma and Calvin Zola, remains to be seen.. We have had so many changes to the squad, moreover I think we'll be one of the sides that teams want to beat. I still think we will finish in the top half of a very tough league though. Rene Howe and Rory Delap are the two to look out for, and they're the two who have excited fans."

Murphy's Best Bet: Burton to reach the play-offs, available at 4/1 with Ladbrokes.

Bury

Players In: Anton Forrester (Loan, ST), Richard Hinds (CB), Reice Charles-Cook (GK), John Rooney (AM), Chris Sedgwick (RW), Rob Lainton (GK), Gareth Roberts (LB), Greg McDermott (CM), Nathan Cameron (CB), Ashley Grimes (AM), Andy Proctor (CM), Jessy Reindorf (ST), Marlon Jackson (ST), Shaun Beeley (Loan RB), Aidan Chippendale (LM).

Players Out: Andy Bishop, Craig Fagan, Mark Hughes, Valery Mezague, Max Harrop, Jordan Melia, Mark Carrington, Joe Skarz, David Healy, Carl Regan, Christian Dibble, Cameron Belford, Marcus Marshall, David Worrall, Steven Schumacher, Efe Sodje.

With ongoing financial worries behind the scenes last season, relegation from League One was the least of Bury’s problems. With that all sorted, Kevin Blackwell has been busy in the transfer market trying to find players capable of lifting the Shakers up to the third tier once more. Ashley Grimes and Chris Sedgwick both look to be smart acquisitions and will soften the blow of club captain Steven Schumacher leaving for Fleetwood. Anton Forrester on loan from Blackburn should accompany the experienced Shaun Harrad going forward as Gigg Lane prepares for a possible play-off push.

What the fan says: @Tommy_Ankers: "It will be hard to judge how we’ll do this season until we get at least 10 to 15 games in, as you will have seen we've had to build a whole new squad and we’re still 3 or 4 players short. I do think we’ll have a slow start which is what you’d expect while the whole team gels. Hopefully we see some improvement from last season and end the year with something we can build on. I haven’t seen any of the pre-season games, but Tom Soares (who should really be playing in a higher league), Shaun Harrad and Richard Hinds all interest me."

Murphy's Best Bet: Bury to finish in the top half of the table, available at 7/4 with SkyBet.

Cheltenham Town

Players In: Craig Braham-Barrett (Loan, LB), Ashley Vincent (ST), Terry Gornell (ST), Matt Richards (CM), Jamie Cureton (ST), Troy Brown (CB), Ed Williams & Joe Hanks (Academy CMs).

Players Out: Darren Carter, Bagasan Graham, Harry Hooman, Darryl Duffy, Kaid Mohamed, Marlon Pack.

Cheltenham have cemented themselves as one of the most consistent outfits in the league in recent years. Under the continued stewardship of entrepreneurial manager Mark Yeats, the Robins have reached and ultimately failed in the play-offs in each of the last two seasons. Despite the media furore surrounding Marlon Pack’s departure, he wasn't at his best last season and as such may not be as big a loss as some are making out. Four very good players have arrived at Whaddon Road, in particular forward Jamie Cureton and attacking midfielder Ashley Vincent who scored five and assisted seven as Port Vale cruised to promotion last season. It may be tougher this time around, but expect the Gloucestershire outfit to make the play-offs once more come May.

What the fan says: @MaxiHobbs: "Expectations amongst supporters are high. After two near misses and double play-off heartbreak fans are expecting a promotion challenge. With some impressive signings over the summer, including Jamie Cureton and midfielder Matt Richards, we've every reason to believe this could be our year."

Murphy's Best Bet: Jamie Cureton to be top goalscorer, available at 20/1 with PaddyPower.

Chesterfield

Players In: Matty Brown (CM), Ritchie Humphreys (CM/CB), Eoin Doyle (ST), Jimmy Ryan (CM), Gary Roberts (LW), Aaron Chapman (GK), Sam Morsy (RM), Ian Evatt (DF), Ryan Edwards (Loan CB), Jamie Devitt (RM). 

Players Out: Richard O’Donnell, Jonathan Wafalu, Craig Clay, Scott Boden, Richard Brindley, Jacob Hazel (Loan), Neal Trotman, Danny Whitaker, Jack Waddle, Mark Randall, Jack Lester.

One of two sides that are expected to do very well this season, Chesterfield have recruited admirably during the summer break. The signing of former Blackpool defender Ian Evatt in particular shows their clout, whilst winger Gary Roberts is undoubtedly one of the purchases of the window. But with just three recognised forwards on their books, the onus will fall on Marc Richards to lead the line. Paul Cook and Leam Richardson have linked up once more after their respective managerial spells at Accrington and will be looking to take the Spireites out of the division they escaped from three years ago. 

What the fan says: @ashleybillyeald: "On paper we have the strongest team in the league, but the game isn't played on paper so it’ll be interesting to see how the new signings work together. I think we have a good chance of securing automatic promotion even if we don’t win the league. Our one to watch is Gary Roberts, he’s a good attacking winger with bundles of skill and he’s not afraid to take players on, he’s just the sort of man we've been looking for. Jimmy Ryan however is definitely the strongest link in the middle of park and he’ll cause teams a lot of problems."

Murphy's Best Bet: Chesterfield to win the league, available at 9/1 with UniBet.

Dagenham & Redbridge

Players In: Afolabi Obafemi (ST), Jack Connors (Academy LB), Rhys Murphy (ST), Brian Saah (CB).

Players Out: Sam Williams, Kevin Maher, Dominic Green, Ben Strevens, Andrew Burns, Duran Reynolds, Jonathan Fortune.

Daggers new manager, Wayne Burnett

It’s out of the frying pan and into the fire for Wayne Burnett who will begin his first full campaign as Dagenham & Redbridge boss next Saturday away at Fleetwood Town. Taking over from long serving manager John Still last March, Burnett oversaw just two victories as Daggers avoided relegation by just five goals over London rivals Barnet. If they’re to survive again this term, their home record of just two wins since January must be significantly improved. Goalscoring has been another key issue since Dwight Gayle's departure, but Daggers fans will be hoping former Arsenal striker Rhys Murphy puts an end to that problem. If those two issues aren't addressed, it’s going to be a fourth consecutive season of fighting the drop for Daggers fans.

What the fan says: @LeeWilsonDRFC: "It looks like being a tough year for the Daggers. After narrowly avoiding relegation the previous season, a lack of a goalscorer looks like being our undoing once again. Although youngsters Rhys Murphy and Abi Obafemi have looked good in patches, whether they offer consistent goals is another thing. However, young left back Jack Connors has impressed in pre season whilst new centre back Brian Saah adds real competition to the back line. Nevertheless, it looks like being another battle against the drop for the Daggers this season."

Murphy's Best Bet: Dagenham & Redbridge to finish bottom, available at 7/1 with BetVictor.

Exeter City 

Players In: Sam Parkin (ST), Doug Bergqvist (CB).

Players Out: Doug Bergqvist (Loan), Steve Tully, Jamie Cureton, Rhys Evans, Mark Molesley, Kevin Amankwaah, Guillem Bauza, Elliott Frear.

Exeter are usually one of the sides that are always round about the promotion places. They proved that last term until an end of season collapse saw them miss out on the play-offs by five points. This season however could be more of a struggle. With several key players forced into exodus due to a lack of funding at St James Park, the Grecians are a markedly weaker side. The biggest loss will undoubtedly be 21 goal hit-man Jamie Cureton, who’s upped sticks in favour of a move east to Cheltenham Town. With a squad of just 22 at the time of writing, the West Country outfit will be increasingly reliant on youth prospects such as Jake Gosling and as a result will find a play-off push a lot harder this time around.

What the fan says: @ecfc32: "I think we've got the potential to do well, but like last season we’ll end up just missing out on the play-offs. Our one to watch is 19 year old winger Jake Gosling. He’s got so much going for him at the moment and I think he could be our, ‘next big thing!’

Murphy's Best Bet: Exeter to be the top Devon club, available at 2/1 with StanJames.

Fleetwood Town

Players In: Steven Schumacher (CM), Stephen Jordan (LB), Mark Roberts (CB), Jeff Hughes (LM), Stewart Murdoch (DM), Matty Blair (CM), Loam Hogan (CB), Antoni Sarcevic (AM), Ryan Cresswell (CB) Richard Wright & Jake Parker (Academy CMs).

Players Out: Chris Maxwell, Shaun Beeley & Alex Titchiner (Loans), Rob Atkinson, Danny Rose, Ritchie Allen, Kieran Charnock, Mozzi Gyorio, Andy Mangan, Barry Nicholson, Danny Rowe, Jamie McGuire, Jean-Michel Fontaine, Liam Wynn, Jamie Milligan, Anthony Barry, Youl Mawene. 

Schumacher puts Fleetwood
in pole position.
www.buryfc.co.uk

If the league was positioned by financial clout and who teams have signed on paper, along with one or two others Fleetwood would runaway with automatic promotion. But it’s not, as former manager Mickey Mellon found out last season. The Cod have recruited well over the summer to strengthen their promotion credentials, the signing of Steven Schumacher from Bury being the standout. With David Ball, Jamille Matt and Jon Parkin already at Highbury to accompany the new arrivals, we can expect Graham Alexander’s men to mount a serious promotion challenge this time around.

What the fan says: @Sam_Heaney: "I think we will be up near the top this season. The season will be considered a disappointment if we fail to make the play-offs at the very least. We have signed some terrific players and have looked good in pre-season, with two comfortable wins against League One opposition. Make sure to look out for midfielder Antoni Sarcevic, Steven Schumacher and David Ball."

Murphy's Best Bet: Fleetwood to gain promotion, available at 7/4 with SportingBet.

Hartlepool United

Players In: Jack Compton (LW), Nialle Rodney (ST), Christian Burgess (Loan CB), Brad Walker (Academy CM).

Players Out: Ritchie Humphreys, Evan Horwood, Nathan Luscombe, Paul Johnson, Nathan Buddle, Colin Nish, Adam McHugh.

Do it for Jeff, lads.
www.hotukdeals.com

It’s been something of a disappointing summer for Hartlepool with only winger Jack Compton and unproven striker Nialle Rodney joining the club. That compared with seven outgoings, including captain Ritchie Humphreys, signals a year of stabilisation in League Two under new manager Colin Cooper. Their main problem will be goalscoring, with no prolific centre forward on the books at Victoria Park. With a largely solid defence and midfield and consistent goalkeeper Scott Flinders to call upon, the forward position could be a sticking point if Stelling’s boys are to advance further up the League Two ladder.

What the fan says: @Forbesie10: "Many fans will disagree with me and will expect promotion, but after the calamity of last season and the board's refusal of a much needed clear out, I think our first priority is to steady the ship and make sure we don't turn this season into another struggling one. I will be extremely satisfied with a top 10 finish! How do you solve a problem like Steve Howard? Last season he was the big signing who turned into being an embarrassing flop and publicly stated he did not want to play for us. After failing to get rid of him, he has been handed the number 9 shirt and told to lead from the front! A frightening thought indeed! Look out for Luke James, a very promising youngster who has yet to really show his true potential! League 2 should be more his level! And not forgetting Jack Baldwin, another excellent young midfielder/defender who has a bright future ahead of him! One of the few players last season to consistently perform at a high level. Well above League 2 standard."

Murphy's Best Bet: Hartlepool to finish in the bottom half, available at 7/4 with SkyBet.

Mansfield Town

Players In: Jamie McGuire (CM), Keiran Murtagh (LM), Martin Riley (CB), Ian Deakin (GK), Paul Black (LB), John McCombe (CB), Sam Clucas (LM).

Players Out: Gary Roberts (Loan), Jamie Hand, Stuart Redmond, Matt Green, Jamie Tolley, Nick Wright, Andy Owens, Paul Bolland, Luke Jones, Exodus Geohaghan, Andy Todd.

After rampaging to the Conference title last season with a winning run that at one stage stood at 12 on the bounce, Mansfield will be looking to reassert themselves in League Two after a five year absence. Teams that end the season well in the Conference tend to start brightly in the league and that should be the case here, with the Stags looking at a mid-table position by the end of September. Transfer wise they've not been very vocal. Impressive forward Matt Green who scored 40 times for the Stags has departed as expected, and as yet no replacement has been found. Therefore Jake Speight will likely start as the central striker with new signing Sam Clucas pulling the creative strings in midfield. I think it could be more difficult for Mansfield than some think, and as such will put them down as scrapping against relegation for the majority of the season.  

What the fan says: @92_jackrich: "After steam rolling to the Blue Square Bet Premier Title last season after an unbelievable run of results after Christmas, Mansfield are finally back in the Football League. In our first season back I see us sustaining a respectable mid table finish due to our usual poor starts to seasons under Paul Cox; however with a good start and a good festive period we could attain a top half finish. Our one to watch is Sam Clucas, signed from Hereford he has been on fire in Pre Season, he’s a young lad with bags of ability."

Murphy's Best Bet: Mansfield to finish in the bottom half, available at 4/5 with SkyBet.

Morecambe

Players In: Mark Hughes (CB), Marcus Marshall (RW), Tony Diagne (LB), Jack Sampson (ST), Alex Kenyon (LW), Aaron McGowan (Academy CM), Will Bell (Academy CB).

Players Out: Jordan Burrow, Dan Parkinson, Gary McDonald, Chris Holroyd, Will Haining, Jamie Short, Lewis Alessandra, Danny Carlton.

Redshaw will be a big blow.
www.bbc.co.uk

Morecambe are an intriguing side. Despite losing several key players over the summer, they've recruited fairly well bringing in the solid Tony Diagne and Marcus Marshall who is experienced at this level. The big blow for them however is that talismanic centre forward Jack Redshaw has been ruled out for five months of the 2013/2014 campaign after sustaining an injury during pre-season. His 17 goals last season helped the Shrimps finish comfortably in mid-table, in his absence the Lancastrian outfit will be relying even more on star player Kevin Ellison. My instincts tell me that Jim Bentley’s side will ultimately be fine, but not without a struggle early on in the season. 

What the fan says: @AdamLordLM : "Bookmakers are taking their usual dim view of Morecambe's chances in League 2 this season. Boss Jim Bentley has however recruited well on a reduced budget bringing in a younger crop of players to replace some of the club's higher earners. The Shrimps have been dealt a major blow on the eve of the season however with the news that star front man Jack Redshaw will be out for up to five months after having hip surgery. Kevin Ellison will be looked upon to fill some of the void left by last season's top scorer with the Globe Arena faithful also hoping goalscoring midfielder Andy Fleming can fulfil his potential in style."

Murphy's Best Bet: Morecambe to finish in the top half, available at 6/1 with SkyBet.

Newport County

Players In: Jamie Stephens (GK), Harry Worley (CB), Adam Chapman (CB), Chris Zebroski (ST), James Bittner (Loan GK), Ryan Jackson (RB). 

Players Out: Jake Harris, Joe Perry, Jake Thomson, Ben Swallow, Michael Boateng, Scott Donnelly, Alan Julian, Rhys Griffiths. 

Justin Edinburgh
www.southwalesargus.co.uk

After 25 years in exile, the Exiles are, well, back (albeit in a new form). May’s 2-0 play-off final victory capped a remarkable rise for Newport and put the cherry on top of an astonishing year for Welsh football. But now they’re here, they’ll want to stay and in the process avoid being the first club ever to be relegated immediately after promotion from the Conference. Even with a largely experienced squad, I have my doubts over whether they will succeed in that aim. One thing is for sure however and that is with highly rated manager Justin Edinburgh in charge they’ll be targeting a mid table finish if they can avoid relegation.

What the fan says: @Lauralizbethh: "I think Newport will do well in League Two in the coming season. Many seem to underestimate County and assume we’ll struggle, but in my opinion we have a strong enough squad and ambitious management to ensure we do more than just stay up. Our player to look out for is without a doubt, former Wimbledon midfielder Chris Jolley. Expect Aaron O’Connor and Andy Sandell to shine as well."

Murphy's Best Bet: Newport to be relegated, available at 7/1 with BetVictor.

Northampton Town

Players In: Darren Carter (CM), Ian Morris (LM), Matt Duke (GK), JJ Hooper (ST), Gary Deegan (MF), Kevin Amankwaah (DF), Ivan Toney & Ben Heath (Academy). 

Players Out: Ben Harding, Jake Robinson, Luke Guttridge, Nana Ofori-Twumasi, Adebayo Akinfenwa, Paul Turnbull, Louis Moult, John Jackson, Lewis Wilson, Clarke Carlisle.

Sixfields away stand

Another side that will aim to be in and around the play-off picture come the end of the season are Northampton Town. After their near miss in the play-offs last season, Aidy Boothroyd has admitted his side are short of goals following the departure of fans favourite Bayo Akinfenwa. With their direct style, Cobblers fans will be hoping to continue their fantastic home record of last season which saw them pick up 17 victories at Sixfields. Kevin Amankwaah has recently joined to shore up the defence following Clarke Carlisle’s retirement, whilst favoured personnel Chris Hackett and Kelvin Langmead remain. With a lot more depth of quality in the league this season, I can see a mid table finish for the Cobblers.

What the fan says: @Tejay94: "The aim for Aidy Boothroyd this season will naturally be to secure promotion. Cobblers fans will be optimistic of a good season following a good pre-season in which a decent Leicester City side were beaten, although the general consensus is that the squad remains light at this stage.It remains to be seen whether Bayo Akinfenwa and his goals can be replaced as no 'recognised' striker has been brought in, only JJ Hooper, formerly of Darlington and Workington has boosted the attacking options. If we’re to go one further this season we’ll have to do much better on the road, we had one of the worst away records last season which cost us dear. Promotion will be far from a formality for the Cobblers this season, but it can definitely be achieved."

Murphy's Best Bet: Northampton to make the play-offs, available at 7/2 with Ladbrokes.

Oxford United

Players In: Tom Newey (LB), Josh Ruffels (CM), Johnny Mullins (CB), Asa Hall (RM), Danny Rose (RM), Jonathan Meades (LB), David Hunt (CM), Dave Kitson (ST), Josh Shama (RW), Callum O’Dowda (Academy LM), David Lynn (Academy LB), Sam Long (Academy CB).

Players Out: Justin Richards, Damien Batt, Harry Worley, Jon Paul-Pittman, Peter Leven, Michael Duberry, Adam Chapman, Wayne Brown, Luke McCormick, Toni Capaldi, Simon Heslop, Tom Craddock, Josh Parker, Liam Davis, Luke O’Brien.

Another side that have bought well in the close season are Oxford United. Chris Wilder, League Two’s second longest serving manager has acted to replace Tom Craddock up front by bringing in former Premier League striker Dave Kitson. Star midfielder Peter Leven is an undoubted loss amongst a major overhaul of the U’s squad, yet Wilder’s men retain a strong midfield ahead of the new season. The long term goal for Oxford remains to gain promotion to League One and with some fans having doubts over the managers credentials, Wilder will be even more determined this season to lead the U’s out of the basement division. With such a small squad though, any potential long term injuries could blight their campaign. 

What the fan says: @OllieWilliams33: "I think what all Oxford fans want this season is promotion, or at the very least the play offs having failed to achieve this feat in the last couple of seasons. The summer signings of forward, Dave Kitson who has Premier League experience and Johnny Mullins along with Jake Wright will form one of the best centre-back pairings in the league in my opinion. We have strengthened significantly enough at both ends of the field to be in and around the automatic promotion picture at the end of the season."

Murphy's Best Bet: James Constable to be League Two top goalscorer, available at 33/1 with PaddyPower.

Plymouth Argyle

Players In: Romuald Boco (RM/ST), Luke McCormick (GK), Lewis Alessandra (ST), Dominic Blizzard (CM), Marvin Morgan (ST), Reuben Reid (Loan ST), Andre Blackman (LB),Tyler Harvey (Academy ST), Ben Purrington (Academy LB).

Players Out: Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenoweth, Warren Feeney, Jared Sims, Onismor Bhasera, Jamie Lowry, Anthony Charles, Paris Cowan-Hall.

The Green Army

After years of struggle at the wrong end of the table, Argyle can finally contemplate a season where it doesn't all go wrong. Like so many clubs, the green army narrowly avoided relegation last term following the arrival of new manager John Sheridan. With his appointment came renewed optimism and that same optimism has translated into the new season with Plymouth fans hoping for a possible play-off push. They've done well over the summer, signing experienced League Two players like prolific forward Marvin Morgan, whilst shedding their deadweight. Despite all of this, I think it may be a year too early for Argyle who will just miss out on a play-off spot come May.

What the fan says: @DaveWeeks16:  "I think we'll do ok this season, a lot better than the past few anyway. Flirting with play-offs is the best we can hope for. Our man to watch is Conor Hourihane (our captain) he’s only 22 but continues to grow stronger, I think he'll do well in midfield, moreover he’ll be able to advance forward more now following the signing of Dominic Blizzard. Marvin Morgan could also do well for us; he’s tall and has experience of this league. Meanwhile Luke McCormick in goal will certainly bring us more clean sheets, in my opinion."

Murphy's Best Bet: Plymouth to finish as the best placed Devon club, 7/1 at ToteSport.

Portsmouth

Players In: Patrick Agyemang (ST), Ricky Holmes (ST), John Sullivan (GK), Sonny Bradley (LB), Tom Craddock (ST), Andy Barcham (LW), Danny East (CB), Joe Devera (CB), Bradley Tarduck (RW), Simon Ferry (MF), Ryan Bird (ST), Liam Triggs (Academy RB), Josh Warren (Academy CB), George Branford (Academy CM).

Players Out: Alex Grant, Simon Eastwood, Elliot Wheeler, Gabor Gyepes, John Akinde, Liam Walker, Dan Thompson, Sam Sodje, George Colson. 

The biggest club with arguably the biggest fanbase, the majority expect Portsmouth to make a comfortable return to League One by the end of this season. Having signed the cream of the League Two crop over the summer it’s hard to disagree with them really. Guy Whittingham has pulled a real rabbit out of the hat by coaxing Simon Ferry into signing, whilst Tom Craddock will be expecting to continue his good goalscoring form from his Oxford days. With their ability to sign players on longer deals, Pompey should have more cohesion, familiarity and experience this season which will ensure them of a play-off place at the very least if not automatic promotion. 

What the fan says: @FrattonFaithful: "After a dire few seasons that comprised two relegations and two administrations, the Pompey Supporters' Trust now own the club and there is a sense of optimism around Fratton Park. The fans are happy with the manager and most of the squad that finished last season with a flourish has been retained. Jed Wallace is the one to watch after he shone in League One last season and the front two of Patrick Agyemang and David Connolly should cause many League Two defences some problems. With so many new signings it might take the team some time to gel so automatic promotion may be out of the question and we'll have to settle for the play-offs, which would still be a good achievement after the last few years."

Murphy's Best Bet: Portsmouth to win the league, available at 5/1 with Coral.

Rochdale AFC

Players In: Robbie Thomson (GK), Javan Vidal (RB), Jack O’Connell (Loan CB), Matt Done (LW), Bastien Hery (DM), Scott Hogan (RM), Ashley Eastham (CB), Olly Lancashire (CB), Peter Vincenti (ST), Matthew Lund (CM), Robbie Thomson (GK), Allen, Logan, Tanser, O’Conner (Academy).

Players Out: Bobby Grant, Terry Gornell, Jason Kennedy, Dele Adebola, Craig Curran, Luke Watson, Andy Haworth, Kevin McIntyre, Matthew Pearson, Matty Edwards, Sam Minihan, Ashley Grimes, Ritchie Jones, Neil Byrne, Phil Edwards.

Hill
www.express.co.uk

After last season’s disappointing campaign, overshadowed by John Coleman’s sacking and Bobby Grant’s alleged racist remarks directed at Gavin Hoyte, Rochdale will be looking forward to a more straight forward season this time around. With Keith Hill serving his second sentence, tenure as Dale boss, supporters of the Spotland outfit can hope for a more upwardly mobile season than last term. With a solid defence to call upon, Dale’s main problem is likely to be goalscoring with several key forward players departing the club over the summer break. Despite all of that, youngster Joe Bunney who scored on his debut in April could make a breakthrough as Dale aim for the play-off spots.

What the fan says: @deanothedalefan: "Quietly confident is the best way to describe the mood at Spotland going into the new season. We've got a crop of young exciting players that have bags of potential and the general consensus within the fanbase is that top 7 is a real possibility. Personally, I think we’ll just miss out on the play-offs, but we’ll be hard to beat and the fans will be behind Keith Hill all the way with his history at Dale. The players in the attacking midfield positions will be key for us – Matty Done and Ian Henderson are very dangerous at this level."

Murphy's Best Bet: Rochdale to make the play-offs, available at 7-2 with Ladbrokes.

Scunthorpe United

Players In: Dean Burton (ST), Sean McAllister (CM), Etienne Esajas (LW), Matt Sparrow (RW), Andy Welsh (LM), Andy Dawson (LB), Luke Waterfall (CB), Terry Hawkridge (MF), Chris Iwelumo (ST), Sam Winnall (ST), Jamie Wootton, Luke Hornsey, George Grayson, Hakeeb Adelakun (Academy).

Players Out: Josh Walker, Akpo Sodje, Mark Duffy, Tom Newey, Callum Kennedy, Robbie Gibbons, Damien Mozika, Andy Barcham, Karl Hawley, Jimmy Ryan, Paul Reid, Mike Grella.

Recently relegated from League One, Scunthorpe can perhaps be considered the dark horses for promotion from League Two. Manager Brian Laws has moved well in the transfer market, signing up experienced pros like Andy Dawson and Chris Iwelumo to compliment creative players such as Etienne Esajas formerly of Sheffield Wednesday and youngster Connor Jennings. After years of struggle both on and off the pitch, it should be a calmer season at Glanford Park this time around with the play-offs looking like a distinct probability. 

What the fan says: @AidanMcCartney: "With ten summer arrivals at Glanford Park Laws has led a reunion of sorts as the Iron try to bounce back to League One at the first attempt. Midfielder Matt Sparrow has returned after three seasons away while defender Andy Dawson has re-joined nearly 10 years on following a hugely successful spell with Hull City. Experienced front-men Chris Iwelumo and Deon Burton have been recruited as Laws puts together a workable mix of youth and experience. Play-offs look to be a realistic aim for the side if we can unearth a proper goalscorer and sort out our problematic home form. Our one to watch is Terry Hawkridge, a 23 year old summer signing from Gainsborough Trinity. Big things are expected in North Lincolnshire for the winger as we look to replace the creativity of Mark Duffy."

Murphy's Best Bet: Scunthorpe to gain promotion, available at 4/1 with BetVictor.

Southend United

Players In: Ben Coker (LM), Will Atkinson (LM), John White (LB), Mitchell Pinnock ( Academy LW), Ryan Auger (Academy RM).

Players Out: Ryan Cresswell (CB), Alex Woodyard (CM), Mickey Spillane (CB/CM), Elliot Benyon (ST), Gavin Tomlin (ST), Bilel Mohsni (CB/ST), John Spicer (CM), Neil Harris (ST), Sean Clohessy (RB), Jack Paxman (LM), Graham Coughlan (CB).

Big Ron (No, not that one)

Unpaid tax bills, winding up orders and a manager trying to prove his worth: welcome to League Two’s most eventful club. Unfortunately for Southend fans though, this season could well be one to forget. With several key players jumping ship, the Shrimpers face a long walk off a short pier. With two Colchester cast-offs and an unreliable Bradford winger, you can’t even say the Essex outfit have bought well as yet. With automatic promotion out of the question, the play-offs are the best Southend can hope for this season – and even that’s pushing it. With kingpin Ron Martin the amiable puppet master at Roots Hall and Kim-Jong Brown on the touchline, the bubble may well burst on the Essex coast this season.

What the fan says: @CJPhillips1982: "At the moment Southend have 11 fit senior players which means they’ll need to strengthen the squad hugely if they’re to finish any higher than mid-table. Player wise Barry Corr is the one to watch. He scored 12 goals in 19 starts last season and is now back to full fitness."

Murphy's Best Bet: Southend to finish in the bottom half, available at 11/10 with SkyBet.

Torquay United

Players In: Krystian Pearace (CB), Ben Harding (CM), Courtney Cameron (LM), Jordan Chappell (ST), Dale Tonge (RB), Elliott Benyon (ST).

Players Out: Brian Saah, Rene Howe, Craig Easton, Daniel Leadbitter, Lloyd Macklin, Karl Baker, Ian Morris, Joe Oastler, Danny Stevens, Saul Haplin, Ryan Jarvis.

It’s the start of another new chapter at Plainmoor following the departure of Martin Ling with former Bury boss Alan Knill taking his place in the dugout. And that brings with it a level of intrigue as to where the Gulls will go from here. Under Knill, Torquay experienced a mixed end to the season, but ultimately it all came together in good time to allow the seasiders to escape the clutches of relegation. I'm afraid to say it could well be another slog at the bottom for Knill's men. After losing key forward Rene Howe and solid centre half Brian Saah, a lot of responsibility will fall onto the shoulders of former star Elliot Benyon to ensure the Gulls don’t slip into those relegation places once more.

What the fan says: @JohnCadigan: "A new season and another new manager at Plainmoor after last season’s debacle, but there’s reason for optimism under Alan Knill. The signing of young wingers Jordan Chapell and Courtney Cameron, and creative midfielder Ben Harding indicates a more exciting style than we experienced under Martin Ling. As well as that, the re-signing of fans favourite Elliot Benyon as well as former Notts County defender Krystian Pearce, has got the fans going. If we can add a another striker or two to the squad, and can pick up from where we left off at the end of last season, a top half finish with some positive, attacking football would represent a job well done for most Gulls fans."

Murphy's Best Bet: Torquay to be relegated, available at 8/1 with StanJames.

Wycombe Wanderers

Players In: Steven Craig (ST), Tommy Fletcher (CB), Jon-Paul Pittman (ST), Charlie Horlock (GK), Paris Cowan-Hall (ST), Nick Arnold (Loan RB).

Players Out: Grant Basey, Olly Taylor, Dave Winfield, Dennis Oli, Georges Ehui, Joel Grant, Gareth Ainsworth, Emanuel Ighorae Jessy Kewley-Graham (Loan).

Wycombe have borrowed Barcelona's away kit
ahead of the new campaign
www.footballkitnews.com

Look under ‘average’ in the dictionary and you’ll find Wycombe Wanderers. With a distinct lack of transfer activity the chairboys have been left with largely the same squad that finished 15th last season. Joel Grant has departed for Yeovil but other than that they haven’t really lost any key figures. Jon-Paul Pittman has been brought in for his second spell with the club and should link up well with tricky winger Sam Wood to provide a potent attacking threat for the Buckinghamshire outfit. 

What the fan says: @Alky007: "This season is one that many Wycombe fans are looking forward to. The first full season of "Rock and Roll Football" under Gareth Ainsworth promises much. Despite the loss of last year’s top scorer Joel Grant and captain Dave Winfield, there are still grounds for optimism within the camp. A lot will be expected from Dean Morgan up front and the youngsters such as Ingram, Stewart, Dunne, Hause, Scowen and McClure should all get chances to shine. There’s no reason why the play offs shouldn't be a realistic target."

Murphy's Best Bet: Wycombe to make the play-offs, available at 7/2 with Ladbrokes. 

York City

Players In: Ben Davies (Loan DF), Chris Kettings (Loan GK), Richard Cresswell (ST), Lewis Montrose (CM), Ryan Bowman (ST), Wes Fletcher (ST), Craig Clay (CB), Ryan Jarvis (ST), Sander Puri (RM), Mike Atkinson (Academy RB), Chris Dickinson (Academy ST).

Players Out: Jason Walker, Jamie Reed, Chris Doig, Matty Blair, David McDaid, Patrick McLaughlin, Michael Potts, Scott Kerr, Jameel Ible, Jon Challinor, Lee Bullock. 

Having narrowly avoided relegation in their first season back in League Two, York City will be looking to push on up the league under the stewardship of Nigel Worthington. The Minstermen are another side to have recruited relatively well, bringing in Estonian international midfielder Sander Puri from St Mirren and powerful midfielder Lewis Montrose from Gillingham. They both suit Worthington’s style of play which will have undoubtedly been drilled into the players over the summer. If they can maintain their sturdy away form and improve on their woeful home record at Bootham Crescent last season, a play-off push is on the cards. 

What the fan says: @lawtonjoe: "Four wins in the last six games of last season meant York avoided suffering the ignominy of being the first ever club to be relegated back to the Conference immediately after being promoted. After last season's unwanted close shave, hopes are high at Bootham Crescent that they can improve on the 17th position they finished in 2013, with even a spot in the play-offs a faint aspiration. Going unbeaten in pre-season against four Championship sides bodes well and manager Nigel Worthington's contacts within the Football League means that when injuries and suspensions inevitably arise, he will be well equipped to bring in temporary faces, very often a problem for League 2 teams. One York player to keep an eye on is new signing Sander Puri. The 25 year old is an Estonian international with 52 senior caps to his name. He is an attacking winger comfortable with both feet and is certainly someone for the Minstermen faithful to get excited about."

Murphy's Best Bet: York City to make the play-offs, available at 6/1 with Ladbrokes.

So there we have it folks, the most in depth and detailed look through of each of the 24 teams competing in League Two in the coming season. Thank you to all of the supporters that have taken part and good luck to all for the rest of the season. Make sure you read my future blogs when we play your team and that you follow me on Twitter using the handle @NickMurphyDRFC. Thank you all for reading and I'll speak to you again soon.

Daggers 1-2 Crystal Palace, Where Eagles Dare.

That's it, it's all over for Daggers. We've lost another pre-season game, this time against Premier League opposition and relegation looms. Except that isn't the case. Dagenham & Redbridge held their own superbly against a strong Crystal Palace side featuring Dwight Gayle, Kevin Phillips and Stephen Dobbie yesterday afternoon. Despite a late resurgence, the two goal lead Palace asserted was unassailable for Daggers who could only muster a late consolation via a Medy Elito penalty. Nonetheless it was a positive performance from the hosts who can take a lot from the game.

With the new season soon to be upon us, I have to tell you I'm not that confident. Why I'm not so sure. It's more of a gut feeling. But hopefully the three month break will have instilled something new into the player’s that changes my belief. In all honesty it's just nice to get back into the old routine. Into the clubhouse and through the turnstiles just in time for kick-off. Football is back.

Daggers started brightly, Jake Reed in particular looking good down the flanks with new signing Obafemi providing the forwards touch in the middle. Palace though weren't to be outdone and through Stephen Dobbie they carried a real threat. Despite the even start, it was the visitors that fashioned the first opportunity of the afternoon. The ball was fed through to trialist Atdhe Nuhui who rounded the 'keeper before seeing his shot cleared off the line by Daggers trialist Brian Saah. 

The pace of the game soon decreased which is to be expected in pre-season. But the decibel level was increased fifteen minutes in when Jake Reed had penalty appeals for a foul by Danny Gabbidon waved away. It may be pre-season, but the crowd didn't care. The sun continued to make intermittent appearances as Daggers pushed forward in search of the first goal. First new signing Obafemi fired wide before Luke Howell sliced one wide of the post.

The best chance of the half however, fell to Palace. After a scramble in the area the ball dropped to veteran Kevin Phillips who could only skew his effort over from close range. That miss sparked Palace into life and only good defensive work from Jack Conners and smart goalkeeping from Chris Lewington kept the Eagles at bay. Despite his best efforts to thwart Stephen Dobbie, Lewington could do nothing on 35 minutes when the unmarked Nuhiu slotted home into the corner of the net for a 1-0 lead.

With that, Daggers were resurgent and kicked on in search of an equaliser. Medy Elito was playing down the middle and as such looked like more of a threat. It was he and Luke Howell that interchanged just before half time to force Julian Speroni into a terrific diving stop. Brian Saah then came close from a corner before Obafemi should have done better after being threaded through one on one by Ogogo.

With the first half coming to a close, it became apparent that there would be no Daggerettes to entertain us during the half time break...oh no.... Also, apparently we've served shepherd’s pie for years, yet I was not made aware of this? As the teams re-emerged for the second half in the blazing sunshine, there was inevitably a flurry of substitutions. 

Palace started the second half with a completely changed side which read as, Fitzsimons, Ramage, Moxey, Inniss, Taylor, Garvan, Grandin, Boateng, Sow, Wilbrahimovic and one, Dwight Gayle. That Gayle fella eh? Sure we've heard of him before. Daggers meanwhile replaced the impressive Jake Reed with trialist Zavon Hines who took to the wing like a duck to water.

The second half started evenly, although Gavin Hoyte was forced into a block early on to deny substitute Sow. Daggers looked inventive down the wings, with Hines in particular showing his intrepid nature. Even with the more positive attacking outlook, it was Palace who doubled their lead soon after the break. Obafemi brought down Quade Taylor just inside the box which gave Owen Garvan the chance to extend the scoreline. And he did just that to make it 2-0. 

Dwight Gayle was denied the chance to take the penalty by Garvan, and as such clearly wanted a goal of his own. Minutes after the penalty he nearly got it but for another brilliant save from the outstanding Chris Lewington. Then came another flurry of changes, with Sean Shields, Lloyd Macklin, Femi and Billy Bingham all introduced. They replaced Gavin Hoyte, Luke Howell, Afolabi Obafemi and Jack Conners. Femi replacing Femi certainly got a chuckle from me.

Zavon Hines proved to be the brightest spark in the Daggers attacking play after his introduction at the break. And with just over 60 minutes gone, his dazzling run down the left hand side brought a penalty when Quade Taylor, who won the penalty down the other end, bundled Hines over. I say "bundled", if this was a competitive game, Palace would have been furious with the award. Nevertheless Elito continued his 100% record from the spot, narrowly sending the ball beyond Fitzsimons to make it 2-1. 

Daggers then introduced another contingent of players, with Jordan Seabright, Ian Gayle & Brian Woodall coming on for Chris Lewington, Scott Doe & Rhys Murphy. Despite Ian Gayle's introduction, it was his namesake Dwight that continued to cause problems for the Daggers defence. His movement and skill opened up space to get a shot away that Seabright held onto well to ensure the hosts remained in the contest. 

Even with the deficit remaining at one, Daggers were unable to find a way back into the match. Despite late pressure, several corners and a dangerous free-kick, the Palace defence remained sturdy to ensure an inaugural pre-season victory ahead of their Premier League campaign. On the whole a good test for both sides, and on the balance of play probably the correct result.

In the wake of the game I have to admit I was anticipating a hard slog of a season, with my gut feeling sending us spiralling towards the Conference. I hate to judge on friendly games, but by the 90th minute my opinion had changed somewhat. I became quietly optimistic, cautiously impressed and dangerously happy. We zipped the ball around well, created space and caused problems for the Palace defence.

We looked encouraging, even if it is pre-season. We certainly passed the ball more confidently than I've seen in some time; it looks as though Burnett is succeeding in instilling his philosophy into the players. And that's something that is vital. If we want to succeed, they have to buy in to what he's trying to sell. As do we. At the moment I think we're all on board. It may be pre-season but the early signs are encouraging.

Lewington

Individually we also look as though we've improved. Chris Lewington turned in a terrific performance between the sticks and his replacement Jordan Seabright fared just as well. Brian Saah and Scott Doe were solid whilst the inexperienced Jack Conners played years beyond his level to show a possible challenge to Femi this season. Gavin Hoyte and Abu Ogogo were as confident as ever, whilst even Medy looked positive through the middle. A position where many have wanted him for quite some time.

Going forward we lacked bite, but hopefully that'll be rectified soon. Afolabi Obafemi worked himself into good positions and Jake Reed gave it 110% as we all know he can. Rhys Murphy looked good whilst Sean Shields looked exciting when introduced. The real star however was Zavon Hines. His trickery, pace and flair lit up the wings and he proved a real menace to both full backs when introduced. Providing he doesn't turn out to be a pre-season Tomlin, I'd be absolutely over the moon if we sign him.

As for Palace, a far from vintage performance but that doesn't matter, it's pre-season after all! Nuhiu looks like a smart acquisition if possible, whilst Dwight Gayle looks like he's worth every penny the Eagles have spent on him. A few more editions including Campana who signed last week and I think they'll make a real fist of staying up in the Prem this season. With Speroni in the sticks, they've got a real fighting chance.

It's not long to go now for us, only two more weeks and the league season starts once more at Fleetwood Town. Next up however is another home friendly on Tuesday night, this time against Charlton Athletic. Kick-off is at 19:45 and I hope to see you all there!

Remember, you can follow my musings on Twitter at @NickMurphyDRFC. Or if you're a Palace fan you can read my Blog on Dwight Gayle by clicking here.

Dwight Gayle, From Stansted to Selhurst.

What a difference a year makes. Twelve months ago a young and inexperienced forward was returning from a loan spell at Bishops Stortford to join up with the Dagenham & Redbridge squad for pre season training. Fast forward a year and that same striker has joined Premier League new boys Crystal Palace, something that seemed inexplicable twelve months ago. From Stansted to Selhurst Park, it's fair to say Dwight Gayle's career has really taken off. 

Just under a year ago, I wrote an article on Dwight stating his qualities and just how far I thought he could go. But to complete such a remarkable rise in such a short space of time has confounded even I. His rise has been notable. After being released as a kid from Arsenal for being too short, Gayle soon joined Stansted where he scored an astonishing 57 goals in a single season. This prompted interest from several league clubs. First to act however were Dagenham & Redbridge. With a rich history of bringing through rough unpolished gems, this would prove to be the perfect place for Dwight to begin his professional career.

Unfortunately due to budgetary constraints at the Daggers, Gayle was forced to spend his first season out on loan at Blue Square North outfit, Bishops Stortford. Scoring 29 goals in 42 league games, Gayle continued to impress, prompting calls from the assistant manager at Stortford that Gayle could possibly eclipse the feats of Steve Morison. Scoring a hat-trick in his final game, a 4-0 win over Eastwood Town, Gayle returned to Essex as Stortford's record goalscorer, netting 42 times in total throughout the season.

The bar was now set for Gayle, with the only question being whether he could transfer his non-league form into the Football League. Having played best in a 4-3-3 formation out on loan, Daggers adhered to what suited Dwight best and true to form he shone. His pace and trickery caused problems for opposition defences from the word go, leaving established centre halves on the spot as he breezed past to cement himself as one of the divisions most dangerous attackers.

He became the focal point of the Daggers attack. His quick feet and ability to draw defenders in created valuable space for others to pick away at defences. His shrewdness in the box meant players were forced to tackle him, bringing penalties and ultimately goals. He is best described as a talisman. And when you have that sort of player in your team, you're onto a winner. In 18 appearances for the lower mid table outfit, he scored 7 goals - which isn't a bad return.

A lot of credit has to go to John Still and his scouting team for picking Dwight out. Where others were sniffing around him, John and the team acted and it proved pivotal. Despite Stilly no longer being with the club, this could yet prove to be the most shrewd piece of business we've ever done. He nurtured Gayle in his time here and hopefully the pint-sized forward will always remember his first Football League club, because we'll always remember him. It's testament to John that his setup has found one of the best young talents in English football.

In late November, Gayle was in demand. Interest from several clubs higher in the pyramid was rumoured to have materialised, but Peterborough United were the only ones to show significant and prolonged interest. There's a long history of deals between the two clubs, so it came as no surprise when Gayle signed on loan with a view to a permanent move. And in-keeping with his previous three clubs, he proved an instant hit.

Scoring in six consecutive games soon after his move, Gayle helped lift Peterborough away from the relegation zone. One performance in particular at runaway league leaders Cardiff where Posh won 2-1 summed Gayle up. His intrepidness, skill and pace was showcased on an unprecedented scale. At the unbeaten home of the champions elect, Gayle tore them apart. He showed no disdain for who they were. No pity, just malice, leaving the Bluebirds in awe of his striking capabilities.

Despite a lull in goalscoring form during the first two months of 2013, Gayle remained key as Posh continued their fight against relegation. He returned to notoriety however in March. A 16 minute hat-trick in the first half at Ewood Park against Blackburn catapulted Gayle into the limelight once more. People were now beginning to stand up and take note of the former Essex Senior League striker as his stock continued to rise.

His talismanic displays continued. When he wasn't scoring, he was providing constant problems for opposition defences. In total he scored 13 goals in 28 appearances for the London Road outfit, but even that wasn't enough to keep them up. Ironically it was his foul on Jonathan Williams of Crystal Palace that led to the goal that ultimately sent Posh down to League One and catapulted the Eagles up into the Play Offs. 

It's weird how coincidences like that work in football. But it's even weirder to think that this time last season we were all speculating on a player that had scored 99 goals in the non-league. No-one thought he'd end up in the Premier League 12 months on. And no-one thought that he'd be worth a solid £6 million, the figure being quoted by The Peterborough Telegraph last Friday afternoon.

But whatever the price, it shouldn't be a burden on Gayle. He's been fantastic for the past three years and a move to the Premier League will only enhance his credentials. With main striker Glenn Murray out for the best part of seven months for Palace, the stage is set for Gayle to showcase his extraordinary array of talents. With his quick pace and predatory instincts, he reminds me and others I've spoken to of a young Jermaine Defoe.

His rise is more than that though. His rise shows that there are some fantastic gems hidden in the non-league. And that the big boys don't always get it right. Released from Arsenal as a junior, Gayle could turn up at the Gunners next season and show Arsene Wenger what he's been missing for the past few years. Players like Gayle show that you don't need to go abroad for talent. If you search hard enough, you'll find someone just as hungry with bundles more potential in the lower reaches of English football.

There's no question he'll have to up his game in the Premier League. But I have no doubt that he'll manage to do that and then some. He's fearless, young and raring to take a hold of a chance that at one stage seemed a million miles away. But more than that, he's an all round striker. He has pace and trickery, complimented by the strength which isn't always evident in the smaller calibre of player. But most of all he has determination, and that will take him far.

For my club it means much more than that. We now have a significant amount of money that will act to keep the club afloat. It ensures that we don’t have to sell another one of our players to keep the wolves from the door. But also, it gives us the pride of saying we produced that player. We can say we’ve seen him score goals for our club, and that’s a wonderful thing.

Having conquered the non-league and the Football League, it's just the Premier League and the International stage to go now for Gayle. If his development continues at such a rapid rate, he could confound us all. It was a pleasure watching Gayle in his short time at Victoria Road, and I sincerely hope he goes on and has a wonderful career in the game. Ironically enough we will see him again in a pre-season game against Palace at Victoria Road next month. I can’t wait for that and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented young forward.

British Grand Prix Betting Preview

After a three week break, Formula One returns this weekend with the teams heading to Silverstone for the British Grand Prix. With eight of the eleven teams based within two hours of the famous circuit, it truly is a home race for the majority of those involved.

Having won last time out in Canada, perhaps unsurprisingly it is Red Bull’s Sebastien Vettel who goes into the weekend as the best priced 2/1 favourite with BetFred. With three race wins under his belt so far this term, Vettel already has a commanding 36 point lead at the top of the driver’s Championship over closest placed rival, Fernando Alonso. The Spaniard is the second favourite to take the spoils at 11/4 following his two previous victories at Silverstone in 2006 and 2011. Having announced his retirement on Thursday morning, Mark Webber will also be looking to win the British Grand Prix for the third and final time as an F1 driver. The Australian has won two of the last three races here and sits at a lengthy 10/1 with SportingBet to pick up his first win of the 2013 campaign.

British hopes however, lie solely with Mercedes ace Lewis Hamilton. With Jenson Button’s faltering McLaren a lowly 66/1 and Paul Di Resta at an unlikely 100/1, it falls to Hamilton to carry the flag for the Brits. And even then Hamilton remains at fairly generous odds, with StanJames offering a competitive 17/2 for Hamilton to pick up his first race win of 2013. A better bet may be his Mercedes team mate, Nico Rosberg who finished third at Silverstone in 2010 and is available at an enticing 14/1. Kimi Raikkonen who won in Australia is also at 17/2 for Lotus.

The safety bet of the weekend however has to be who will take pole position on Saturday afternoon. With Sebastien Vettel and Nico Rosberg sharing six of the seven poles so far this season, they’re prime candidates for the front row at Silverstone. Rosberg is available at 11/4 with multiple bookmakers whilst Vettel remains favourite, with Boylesports offering 21/10 for the German to clinch his second pole in a row. What could prove crucial once qualifying has finished however is that only once in the last five years has the pole sitter gone on to win at the famous old track.

The other key market is the general outlook of who will finish on the podium. Aside from the obvious three or four, Nico Rosberg is touted at 3/1 with BetVictor, whilst teammate Lewis Hamilton who has finished 3^rd on three occasions so far in 2013 is available at 15/8. Where outsiders are concerned, despite plenty of value there is little chance any speculation will result in accumulation. Brit Paul Di Resta who has finished outside the points just once this season is on offer at 10/1 to make his first podium finish in F1, whilst Sauber’s Esteban Gutierrez who finished 2^nd in Spain is the main outside challenger at an extortionate 500/1.

Whatever the outcome, with the weather looking fine for the remainder of the weekend, the British Grand Prix should prove to be as scintillating a spectacle as ever.

Murphy's Value Bet: Winning Car, Ferrari, 12/1 (888sport)

Daggers Top 10 Games, 2012/2013 Season.

With the release of the fixtures for the upcoming League Two campaign out tomorrow, The Daggers Scale looks back on some of the fondest matches from this season. 

Dagenham & Redbridge 5-0 Rotherham United

Perhaps the most poignant result since the club joined the Football League, November’s 5-0 demolition of promotion chasing Rotherham United was a significant one. With Bostongate hate figure Steve Evans in charge, the victory meant so much more than just the three points. First half goals from Dwight Gayle and Luke Howell set the scene before Howell added a third early in the second half. Medy Elito then made it four before Dwight Gayle capped a superb display in injury time by slotting home the fifth to jubilant cries from the Sieve. It was a result beyond all belief, all comprehension and most of all, it felt like a degree of closure to the Bostongate events just over 10 years previous.

Accrington Stanley 0-2 Dagenham & Redbridge

Spectacular it wasn’t, but consistent it was. That’s the verdict following Daggers’ first win of 2013 away at the Crown Ground, Accrington. In front of the lowest crowd of the Football League Season, Daggers turned in the perfect away performance to take the three points. The visitors dominated throughout and went ahead mid-way through the first half when Matt Saunders glanced home Medy Elito’s pin-point cross. The second half provided more of the same with Daggers sealing the win on 52 minutes when Luke Howell’s precision drive flew past Cameron Belford to send the 37 travelling Daggers fans home happy into the cold Lancastrian night.

Dagenham & Redbridge 4-3 Bradford City

An important win, but an entertaining one as well. For too many seasons now Daggers had become something of a stick in the mud at home, no exciting performances like the Daggers of old. But within 30 minutes here the hosts raced into a two goal lead through Billy Bingham and Mickey Spillane. The majority thought the game was over when Luke Wilkinson headed home early in the second half. But a sterling second half fightback from Bradford reduced the deficit to 3-2, with abject defending from the Victoria Road outfit to blame. The two goal parity was soon restored though, when Dwight Gayle broke free from a Bradford corner before beating his man and executing a superb finish past the opposition ‘keeper to make it 4-2. Alan Connell jangled nerves by making it 4-3, but ultimately Daggers hung on for the win to continue their impressive run of form against Bradford City.

Rotherham United 1-2 Dagenham & Redbridge

Nobody was expecting three points in the reverse fixture against Rotherham United at the gleaming New York Stadium. Daggers had not won in their last four whilst the Millers were six unbeaten and sat 4^th in the league table following a 4-0 dismantling of Oxford. With little expectation, Daggers looked confident in their defending and restricted Rotherham to any clear cut opportunities in the first half. The second half introduction of Billy Bingham swung the game in the visitors favour, and with 60 minutes played Daggers were handed a significant advantage. Medy Elito was brought down when through on goal which meant Kari Arnason saw red as Elito dispatched the resulting spot kick. Despite Claude Davis’ quickfire equaliser, a well worked free kick late on allowed Luke Wilkinson a strike on goal which he dually converted to give Daggers an unexpected 2-1 victory. With the Evans factor again a major cause for enjoyment for Daggers fans, it was a significant and perhaps even better victory than the one which had come at Victoria Road 4 months earlier.    

Port Vale 1-1 Dagenham & Redbridge

This one won’t go down as a classic, but at the start of the season this was an intensely valuable point. Daggers had one just the once whilst Port Vale sat 2^nd in the league, yet it was the Essex club who looked the more confident throughout. Medy Elito had earlier hit the post before Luke Howell opened the scoring with the aid of a mistake from Vale goalkeeper Chris Neal. Unfortunately it didn’t last long as Myrie-Williams equalised three minutes later, but nonetheless in the context of things it was a big point and one the Daggers fans can look back fondly over.

Exeter City 0-1 Dagenham & Redbridge

When you look back at the final day, the context of this victory could not be more important. Without these thoroughly unexpected three points, Daggers would have been relegated at the expense of Barnet. But that didn’t happen, which means we can enjoy this match even more. In a sun coated day down in Devon, it was the visitors who were beaming after another perfect away performance under Wayne Burnett. An early headed goal from Luke Wilkinson put the Daggers 1-0 up and from there, we never looked back. We looked solid at the back against what little pressure Exeter exerted, whilst Kevin Maher marshalled the midfield the superbly. The final 85 minutes were both nervous and relaxing at the same time, in the sense we knew what it meant but we were never really troubled. The 3 points went back to Essex as Daggers won at St James Park for only the second time in their history.

Dagenham & Redbridge 1-1 Burton Albion

Despite Burton’s lofty position in the table at the time of the match, I haven’t picked this match for the point we gained. I picked it for the second half performance and in particular the performance of one Josh Scott. The first half was uninspiring, lackadaisical and almost what we had come to expect from Daggers at Victoria Road, with the visitors taking the lead midway through the first half. But with the introduction of Louis Dennis for the intolerable Medy Elito, things soon changed. It was almost as if a new lease of life had been unleashed. Daggers looked fresh with intent and calmer on the ball. And it showed straight away as Josh Scott picked up the ball, rounded several players and executed an unstoppable shot past Stuart Tomlinson to gift Daggers an equaliser. From that moment on the hosts were the better side and can be considered unlucky not to have gone on to win the game. The performance in the second half provided such a contrast to that of the first that it was almost embarrassing. And that’s something we have to amend if we are to improve next season.

 Chesterfield 1-2 Dagenham & Redbridge

Daggers generally have a decent record against the Spireites and so it proved again here, with the visitors dominating proceedings and recording a deserved first away win of the season. With no defeats at Saltergate, we were looking to continue our unbeaten record at Chesterfield’s new home, The B2Net stadium. After a positive start, it took Daggers 42 minutes to take the lead, with Sam Williams firing home a superb opener for his second goal of the season. The frontman was upstaging newly signed Chesterfield star Luis Boa Morte who was suffering with a miserable day at the office. Even with Jack Lester’s equaliser after the break, Daggers and in particular Sam Williams could not to be outdone. The perma-tanned forward was given the ball on the edge of the box before turning and unleashing an unstoppable strike beyond Richard O’Donnell and into the roof of the net. From then on in, the visitors controlled the match and deservedly went home with their first away win of the season.

Dagenham & Redbridge 1-0 Cheltenham Town

This game wasn’t particularly enthralling or entertaining, but it was solid and perhaps more importantly the final 3 points John Still ever received as Dagenham & Redbridge manager. In the build up, the visitors were considered the favourites. Being in good form and having never lost against the Daggers, there was good evidence to suggest they were worthy favourites. But from the off they were second best. Daggers looked hungrier, more determined and more resilient, grinding out an important win in the process. Luke Howell’s second half strike proved to be decisive, not even former Dagger Paul Benson could find a breakthrough for the visitors as the home defence stood firm. Cheltenham were defeated for the first time and John Still recorded his last ever victory.

Oxford United 2-3 Dagenham & Redbridge

Like a lot of the teams in League Two, Daggers never seem to do well against Oxford. With no wins in our previous five meetings with the U’s, we had good reason to be doubtful. But on this particular Tuesday night at the Kassam, something clicked and the visitors rode to an impressive victory. The wheels were set in motion late in the first half, with Sam Williams heading the visitors in front from close range. Luke Howell then doubled the lead on 50 minutes before Tom Craddock pulled one back 10 minutes later. With Premier League scouts in the crowd, Daggers Luke Wilkinson was out to impress. And he could not have done any better by turning in an immaculate defensive performance, capped off with a powerful header on 62 minutes to restore the two goal lead and make it 3-1 to the visitors. It didn’t end there though, with Tom Craddock pouncing on Femi’s poor backpass to make it 3-2 before Kevin Maher was sent off to swing the tide further into Oxford’s favour. Despite the man disadvantage, Daggers held on to the lead to break their winless run against the U’s.

From these 10 games I have picked out, a clear pattern has emerged. Only four of the ten fixtures took place at Victoria Road, with Daggers seemingly more confident away from home than at home during this campaign. There was no such thing as, “Home Comforts”, with Daggers picking up just seven home wins compared to an impressive six away from home. The message for next season is clear; we have to improve on our home form whilst maintaining our consistent if unspectacular away form. If we can do that, we’ll be fine. 

Wigan And The FA Cup - A Match Made In Heaven.

The FA Cup. The competition that has in recent seasons, dwindled with regards to support and general interest amongst the general footballing community. So perhaps it was fitting that this seemingly unfashionable competition, was won by what can be described as a seemingly unfashionable club in Wigan Athletic. It rekindled memories of FA Cup campaigns past and the glory of the oldest competition in the world, restoring it to its former self.

In recent years it has been disregarded by the FA. Kick off times have been varied to factor in corporate sponsors, TV audiences and the far superior Champions League Final at Wembley. Fans have been alienated by the ticketing policy and the simple lack of consideration by the authorities towards them. But amongst all of that, it's terrific that Wigan, little old Wigan, has reminded us of what the FA Cup is all about.

Despite the kick off time, Saturday's match brought supporters back to a time when English football was dominated by rich owners and foreign investors. A club at the heart of the community, a club that remains grounded - a club that made the FA Cup feel pure again. 

If you ask supporters, they still care about the grand old competition very much. Especially lower league supporters. It gives them the opportunity to dream, the opportunity to go on an adventure and the opportunity to go on a once-in-a-lifetime rollercoaster ride against teams far mightier than their own. Crawley Town, Brentford and Macclesfield as well as all Conference clubs will vouch for that.

So it's even more refreshing that this year's winners know what that feels like. To taste victory in the way that they did is an amalgamation of 81 years of planning, toil and hard work. They've been to the depths of non-league; they know what it's like for the majority of the clubs in Britain. And that's what makes it even more special. Not only that but it provides a template for lower league clubs, something to aspire and look up to in the future which is perhaps a poignant part of Wigan's winning legacy.

It is perhaps even more fitting that Wigan's win should come in a year when sponsors Budweiser nearly tore the heart out of the competition completely. In the earlier rounds, they made a mockery of the cup, allowing former stars to ply their trade for Wembley FC in the preliminary rounds. Whilst it may be terrific for Wembley, it provided an unfair advantage against other clubs and what's more, almost made the cup a brand to be bought and sold as a product of promotion.

Wigan have turned Budweiser's theory on its head. You don't need world class players to do well, you need grit, determination and belief - something that the megastars of Manchester City lacked on Saturday evening. They looked disinterested as if it was just another medal for the trophy cabinet, which is why Wigan won. They wanted it more, they have that extra incentive to do it and to prove the doubters wrong - and for that I admire them. 

What makes it even better is that the goal was a mirror of Lawrie Sanchez's of Wimbledon against Liverpool in 1988. And similarly to that header, Ben Watson's flick has equal significance now. It gave the town something to cheer about, it gave football something to cheer about - a real success story that proves rewards can come to those who wait. And that budgeting correctly does in fact bring rewards, and they taste all the more sweet when they do come. 

This success in particular gives a spark of inspiration to those in a similar position to what Wigan were, all those years ago. There's nothing to counter the suggestion that with the right management and a small degree of investment, teams in the third division and below can't emulate the Latics' feat. And with Wigan's 1-0 victory, teams will firmly believe that such a feat is achievable.

In a sense I suppose you could say it was the Shabby Chic team that defeated the Shabby Sheikh himself. Wigan, the most unfashionable team in the land defeating the side that cruelly took promotion to the second division away from them 14 years previous. Not only is it a fantastic achievement for Wigan, but it's a fantastic achievement for football and for the FA Cup.

Remember, you can follow me on Twitter, @NickMurphyDRFC.