Mansfield Town have confirmed that forward Lucas Akins has rejoined the first-team squad after being released from prison halfway through a 14-month sentence.
The 36-year-old was jailed in April after pleading guilty to causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving following a road traffic incident in March 2022. Cyclist Adrian Daniel, 33, died 10 days after sustaining a catastrophic head injury.
Mansfield Town Statement
In a statement issued on Thursday, the League One club said Akins had “rejoined the first-team squad following the conclusion of a custodial sentence,” adding that there was nothing preventing his return to football. It remains unclear when he will resume playing.
“The club wishes to once again extend its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr Adrian Daniel. Our thoughts remain with all those impacted by this tragic accident.”
“In line with principles of rehabilitation and reintegration, the club is of the view that Lucas, having served his sentence, should be afforded the opportunity to resume his professional career.”
The club said it had supported Akins during his time in custody and through the judicial process, and that it would continue to do so as he returns to a first-team environment.
“Lucas has reiterated his profound remorse for the events of that day and fully recognises the enduring impact this tragedy has had on the family of Mr Daniel. Mansfield Town has provided support to Lucas throughout his time in custody and following the conclusion of judicial proceedings, and will continue to offer appropriate support as he returns to the first team environment.”
The article notes that Akins was named in Mansfield’s 2025-26 squad, with the club declining to comment further until his sentence had been served. During the court process, he continued to play and received support from the club, including a reference from manager Nigel Clough. Akins is still serving a 2-year driving ban.
Lukas Akins Career
Akins began his career at Huddersfield Town in 2007, but he played on loan for Northwich Victoria before moves to Hamilton Academical and Partick Thistle. He became a regular at Tranmere Rovers, then joined Stevenage.
Akins’ most prolific spell came at Burton Albion from 2014 to 2022, where he set club records for English Football League appearances (307) and goals (65) and helped secure successive promotions to the Championship.
He signed for Mansfield in January 2022, aiding promotion to League One in 2024 and continuing as an adaptable presence, able to play almost anywhere on the pitch.
Writer’s view
Mansfield’s statement frames Akins’ return around rehabilitation and reintegration while restating condolences to Adrian Daniel’s family. The club confirms his reintegration into training but stops short of any timeline for match involvement.
With Akins now eligible to resume his career and still under a driving ban, the immediate focus appears to be a phased return under club supervision, with all parties acknowledging the gravity and lasting impact of the 2022 incident.
