Chesterfield’s return to the EFL has brought with it expectation, pressure and no shortage of debate.
After a strong start to the season, the bruising defeat at Gillingham provided an early reality check, reminding supporters that promotion campaigns are rarely smooth. Yet the broader picture is more complex than a single night of defensive errors and refereeing controversy. Chesterfield are a club with genuine upward momentum, but also with recurring weaknesses that cannot be ignored.
A Better Start Than Last Season
On the surface, progress is visible. A points comparison with the same fixtures from last season shows an improvement, with home wins replacing frustrating draws and away form starting to sharpen up. Last season’s Achilles heel was an inability to turn possession into victories at the Technique Stadium, with nine home draws leaving valuable points on the table. Already, there is evidence that the side are finding ways to convert dominance into three points, an essential trait for any promotion hopeful.
The squad, too, has greater depth. Goals are being spread around the team rather than falling on one or two shoulders, while the attacking play, when it clicks, has looked sharper than twelve months ago. There is no sense of panic in the wider outlook; Chesterfield have been in worse positions and still delivered successful seasons under Paul Cook.
Defensive Frailties
That said, the Gillingham defeat exposed a problem many supporters had identified before a ball was kicked: the centre of defence. Cook has placed faith in experienced campaigners, but with age comes a lack of pace and the risk of physical decline. With players like Liam Mandeville and Armando Dobra providing energy in attacking roles, the contrast with a slower, less mobile back line is stark.
Injuries have also forced compromises. Players returning from long-term absences or carrying knocks have been thrown into the side, while reinforcements have not arrived in key positions. Chesterfield look lightweight when defending against direct, physical football, and opposition sides will have noticed that vulnerability. The comparison with Mansfield, who bullied their way to victory with aggressive pressing earlier this season, highlights a flaw that needs fixing if automatic promotion is to be realistic.
Possession Without Penetration
Another recurring concern is Chesterfield’s style of play. Cook’s commitment to a possession-based approach has been unwavering. At its best, it can overwhelm opponents and pin them back for long spells. At its worst, it becomes sterile and predictable, with sideways passing around the back four inviting pressure rather than creating openings.
Opponents have learned that if they sit deep, frustrate, and press aggressively when the ball is played short, they can blunt Chesterfield’s threat and even punish mistakes at the back. This was evident at Gillingham, where 70% possession produced fewer shots on target than a home side playing direct, high-pressure football.
The lack of a Plan B is a frequent complaint. Chesterfield rarely deviate from their 4-2-3-1 setup, even when chasing a game. Forwards like Will Grigg and Kieron Bonis need better service, yet tactical changes to support them — whether through two up front or more direct wing play — are seldom tried. The question is whether Cook is willing to adapt his philosophy when circumstances demand it.
The Cook Question
Paul Cook’s contribution to Chesterfield’s resurgence is beyond doubt. He has rebuilt the club’s identity, reconnected with supporters and guided the Spireites back to the EFL. His passion is a driving force, but his touchline behaviour and stubborn adherence to a single way of playing are double-edged swords.
Officials appear increasingly wary of his reactions, and whether fair or not, there is a growing feeling that Chesterfield do not always get the benefit of marginal decisions. More importantly, Cook’s reluctance to alter approach risks undermining the progress made elsewhere. A promotion campaign requires flexibility, particularly in a league where styles vary from possession-based to outright physical.
Recruitment and the Bigger Picture
Recruitment has been a mixed bag. Attacking players like Dilan Markanday bring flair, but high-profile signings must deliver consistently to justify investment. At the other end of the pitch, the absence of a commanding centre-half stands out as a glaring oversight. With older defenders relied upon heavily, the season already threatens to become a grind of Saturday-Tuesday fixtures that expose tired legs.
Yet Chesterfield are not standing still as a club. Attendances remain strong, support on the road has been impressive, and financially the team are better placed than many rivals. This season’s League Two is considered weaker than last year’s, and the opportunity for automatic promotion is there to be taken.
Conclusion
Chesterfield’s season will not be defined by one poor night in Kent, just as early victories did not make promotion inevitable. The Spireites are stronger than last year, but familiar flaws remain. A rigid style, an ageing defence, and a lack of adaptability could derail their ambitions if left unchecked. At the same time, there is talent, depth, and a winning mentality within the squad that suggests promotion is a realistic aim.
For Cook and his players, the challenge is simple: keep the strengths, fix the weaknesses, and prove that lessons have been learned. Do that, and Chesterfield will not just be competing — they will be celebrating come May.
