Luton Town striker Bim Pepple believes Chesterfield have what it takes to bounce back stronger in 2025/26, following their play-off heartbreak against Walsall.
Pepple scored five goals and provided an assist during his time in Derbyshire, helping Paul Cook’s side secure a last-day play-off spot. His standout performance came in a 5–2 thrashing of Doncaster Rovers, where he netted his first EFL goals. However, their post-season hopes were dashed after a semi-final loss to Walsall.
Speaking on the Blues News podcast, Pepple reflected positively on his stint in League Two.
“I loved my time there. I would have loved for it to have ended in promotion or a couple more goals but it was enjoyable and I showed I could play in League Two,” he said. “The gaffer was brilliant, the whole staff were brilliant with me… Will Grigg and Paddy Madden were excellent, they are definitely still people who I will message in the future to get more advice.”
Pepple praised the club’s atmosphere, saying the supporters were welcoming both at matches and in everyday life around the town. “The fans were really good… Every time I went out to the shop to get groceries the fans would be like ‘Bim, can I have a photo?’ They are really great people.”
Chesterfield’s form leading into the play-offs had marked them out as potential dark horses, but after a first-leg setback, they were unable to turn things around at the Bescot. Pepple admitted the second leg was frustrating, particularly with Walsall managing the game to their advantage.
“They were comfortable to sit in and soak up the pressure. Their keeper was going down every five minutes to waste time,” he recalled. “It was tough and quite disappointing not to go through… For sure, next season, the goal for them is automatic promotion and there is no reason why they can’t.”
Writer’s View
Pepple’s comments reflect a growing belief within and around Chesterfield that the club is ready to challenge at the top end of League Two. His praise for Paul Cook’s man-management, and for the experienced pros around him, paints a picture of a well-run dressing room primed for success.
While Pepple’s own future remains uncertain, he’s clearly left with admiration for the Spireites—and his bullish promotion prediction won’t go unnoticed by fans still recovering from play-off disappointment. With the retained list due soon and momentum behind them, Chesterfield look like early contenders for 2025/26.
