Exeter City

Exeter City Football Club, founded in 1901, is a professional football team based in Exeter, Devon. Known as 'The Grecians,' the club has built a reputation for its strong community ties and has been operated by the Exeter City Supporters’ Trust since 2003. Playing at St James Park, which boasts a capacity of over 8,000, the team enjoys enthusiastic backing from its loyal fan base. Currently competing in League One, Exeter continues to punch above its weight, often showcasing young talent developed through its highly-regarded academy.

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Exeter City Updates

Exeter City are navigating a demanding League One campaign, displaying moments of promise alongside challenges with consistency. The team’s recent performances include a hard-fought victory and some tough defeats, highlighting areas for improvement as they aim to climb the table.

Injuries have tested squad depth, with key players such as Yanic Wildschut and Pierce Sweeney currently sidelined. However, the return of midfielder Reece Cole from injury provides a timely boost to the team’s options and creativity.

Morale within the squad remains strong, with manager Gary Caldwell praising the players’ resilience and focus. Despite the setbacks, Exeter City continues to work towards maintaining their League One status and pushing for a strong finish, driven by a united team ethos and the unwavering support of their fans.

Exeter City Transfer News and Rumors

As of January 2025, Exeter City are actively engaged in the transfer market to strengthen their squad for the remainder of the League One season. The club has secured several signings, including experienced midfielder Ryan Woods from Hull City and forward Josh Magennis from Wigan Athletic, both on free transfers. Additionally, defender Jack McMillan joined from Partick Thistle, and young talents such as Joe Whitworth from Crystal Palace and Tristan Crama from Brentford have been brought in on loan deals.

Departures include centre-forward James Scott to St. Mirren and midfielder Tom Carroll to MK Dons, both on free transfers. Defender Zak Jules has also moved to Rotherham United. Exeter have recently signed Cardiff City’s 20-year-old midfielder Joel Colwill, who has impressed during his loan spell at Cheltenham Town, scoring nine goals in 28 appearances.

Exeter City’s transfer activity reflects a strategic approach, focusing on free transfers and loan deals to enhance squad depth without significant financial expenditure. This mirrors the cautious spending observed among other League One clubs during this transfer window. The integration of these new signings is anticipated to bolster team performance as Exeter aims for a strong finish to the season.

Exeter City Signings

Exeter City’s latest signings reflect strategic recruitment, adding depth and variety across all positions. From experienced leaders to young talents, these players bring a mix of defencive stability, midfield creativity, and attacking flair, strengthening the team’s prospects for the season.

Player	Age	Nationality	Left	Fee	Contract Duration
Ryan Woods	31	English	Hull City England Championship	Free Transfer	Until June 2026
Jack McMillan	27	Scottish	Partick Thistle Scotland Championship	Free Transfer	Until June 2026
Josh Magennis	34	Northern Irish	Wigan Athletic England League One	Free Transfer	Until June 2025
Patrick Jones	21	Welsh	Huddersfield Town England League One	Undisclosed	Until June 2025
Ed Francis	25	English	Gateshead FC England National League	Undisclosed	Until June 2026
Joe Whitworth	20	English	Crystal Palace England Premier League	Loan	Until May 2025
Joel Colwill	20	Welsh	Cardiff U21 Wales	Loan	Until May 2025
Johnly Yfeko	21	English	Rangers B Scotland	Loan	Until May 2025
Kevin McDonald	36	Scottish	Without Club	Free Agent	Until June 2025

Exeter City Key Matches of the season

Exeter City fans can anticipate exciting clashes, especially against rivals like Bristol Rovers and star-studded big-spenders such as Birmingham City and Wrexham. For all fixtures this season, visit our fixtures page.

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Exeter City Key Achievements

• 1904: Exeter City Football Club was founded, establishing its roots in Devon and becoming a key representative of the region in football.
• 1931: Reached the FA Cup sixth round, a historic milestone as the club’s best-ever performance in the competition.
• 2008: Secured promotion to the Football League from the Conference, defeating Cambridge United 1–0 in the play-off final.
• 2009: Achieved back-to-back promotions, climbing to League One by finishing second in League Two.
• 2017, 2018, 2020: Reached the League Two play-off finals, demonstrating consistency and ambition.
• 2022: Gained automatic promotion to League One by finishing second in League Two.
• Strong Academy: Produced notable talents such as Ethan Ampadu and Ollie Watkins, reinforcing its reputation for youth development.

Exeter City Current Squad

Exeter City often have trouble attracting talent, given their geographical location and the club’s ownership structure, but they’ve assembled a competitive side, year on year, in League One.

Exeter City Attackers

Exeter’s attack is led by consistent contributors like Josh Magennis, with three goals in 19 appearances, and Millenic Alli, who has five goals in 16 matches. Their combined experience and skill offer both creativity and firepower, with support from emerging talents like Kamari Doyle and Caleb Watts, who have chipped in vital goals. This diverse forward line remains crucial to Exeter’s scoring strategy.

Exeter City Midfielders

The midfield is anchored by reliable players like Ryan Woods and Jack McMillan, both with over 20 appearances and key contributions to ball control and attacking transitions. Ilmari Niskanen and Jake Richards provide depth and occasional goals, ensuring creativity in the midfield. This group’s versatility is pivotal in linking defence and attack.

Exeter City Defenders

Exeter’s defence features stalwarts such as Tristan Crama and Pierce Sweeney, who have made 22 and 18 appearances, respectively, delivering consistency and strength at the back. Players like Ed Francis and Jack Fitzwater also offer crucial defencive contributions, ensuring solidity and leadership to maintain clean sheets.

Exeter City Goal Keepers

The team’s goalkeeping duties are led by Joe Whitworth, who has been ever-present with 25 appearances this season. His performances provide a strong last line of defence. Backup goalkeepers, including Shaun MacDonald, are reliable options to bolster the squad’s depth in critical moments.

Exeter City Managing and Coaching Staff

Exeter City’s management and coaching staff comprise experienced professionals dedicated to the club’s success.

Gary Caldwell

Appointed as Exeter City’s manager in October 2022, Gary Caldwell brings a wealth of experience from his playing and managerial career. A former Scotland international, Caldwell has managed clubs including Wigan Athletic and Partick Thistle. He is known for implementing a possession-based style of play, focusing on building from the back and maintaining control of the game.

Kevin Nicholson

Serving as assistant manager since November 2022, Kevin Nicholson has been with Exeter City since 2019, initially as head of coaching. He briefly took on the role of caretaker manager in October 2022, achieving a 50% win record over six matches. Nicholson’s coaching philosophy emphasises player development and adaptability, aligning with the club’s long-term vision.

David Perkins

David Perkins joined Exeter City as a first-team and under-23s coach in November 2022. A former midfielder with experience at clubs such as Barnsley, Blackpool, and Wigan, Perkins brings valuable insight into midfield play and player development. His transition from player to coach has been marked by a focus on nurturing young talent and fostering a competitive team spirit.

Kevin Miller

Appointed as goalkeeping coach in December 2022, Kevin Miller, a former professional goalkeeper, played for clubs such as Crystal Palace and Watford over his career. His extensive experience between the posts provides Exeter City’s goalkeepers with expert training and mentorship, aiming to enhance their technical skills and game understanding.

This cohesive coaching team combines diverse experiences and expertise, working collaboratively to implement strategic plans and foster player development, aiming to drive Exeter City towards achieving its competitive objectives.

Exeter City Former Managers & Key Coaches

Exeter City has been shaped by the contributions of several notable managers who left a lasting impact on the club’s history and success.

• Matt Taylor (2018–2022): Taylor led Exeter to promotion to League One in 2022 by securing a second-place finish in League Two. His tactical approach and focus on youth development established a solid foundation for the club’s future.
• Paul Tisdale (2006–2018): As Exeter’s longest-serving manager, Tisdale guided the team through one of its most successful periods. He achieved back-to-back promotions from the Conference to League One and reached the League Two play-off finals three times. Tisdale is celebrated for his innovative tactics and player management.
• Alex Inglethorpe (2004–2006): Known for developing young talent, Inglethorpe took Exeter to the FA Cup third round in 2005, where they held Manchester United to a famous 0–0 draw at Old Trafford. His tenure highlighted the club’s ability to compete against higher-level opposition.
• Eamonn Dolan (2002–2004): Dolan played a key role in stabilising Exeter during a financially challenging period. He is remembered for laying the groundwork for the club’s supporter-led ownership model and fostering a strong team spirit.

Exeter City Legends

Like any club, Exeter City has an interesting history, enriched by legendary players who have left a mark on the club and its fans. Below are some of these iconic figures:

Jimmy Giles (1970–1980)

• Represented Exeter in 322 matches, scoring 37 goals.
• A key player during Exeter’s rise to the third tier of English football.
• He was revered for his strong leadership and defencive prowess.

Tony Kellow (1976–1985)

• Exeter’s all-time leading scorer with 129 goals in 332 appearances.
• Won the club’s Player of the Season award three times.
• Integral to Exeter’s 1980 FA Cup quarter-final run.

Arnold Mitchell (1952–1966)

• Made a club-record 495 appearances, primarily as a defender.
• Captained Exeter to their highest league finish at the time in 1964.
• He was celebrated for his consistency and loyalty to the club.

Alan Banks (1964–1973)

• Scored 108 goals in 260 games for Exeter.
• He is renowned for his sharp finishing and crucial goals during promotion campaigns.
• Named Player of the Year in 1967.

Cliff Bastin (1928–1929)

• Played 17 matches for Exeter, scoring six goals before joining Arsenal.
• He became a legend at Arsenal, but his career began with Exeter City.

Dermot Curtis (1963–1967)

• Made 143 appearances, netting 44 goals.
• He is a Republic of Ireland international known for his skilful play and versatility.

These players remain central to Exeter City’s rich legacy and enduring spirit.

Exeter City Team Metrics and Performance

Exeter City finished 13th in League One during the 2023–24 season, amassing 61 points with 17 wins, ten draws, and 19 losses. The team scored 46 goals, averaging one per game, while conceding 61, resulting in a goal difference of -15.

Historically, their best league finish was eighth in the third tier during the 1979–80 season. Currently, in the 2024–25 season, Exeter City is in 14th place, with 31 points from 24 matches. Predictions for this season suggest a mid-table finish, focusing on steady improvements and maintaining competitive form.

The club has primarily competed in the lower tiers of English football since joining the Football League in 1920. The club initially played in the Third Division South and has alternated between the third and fourth-tiers for much of its history. Exeter has spent the majority of its time in the fourth tier (now League Two), with notable spells in the third tier (League One), including their highest league finish of eighth in the Third Division in 1979–80. Briefly relegated to non-league football in 2003, Exeter returned to the Football League in 2008

The club continues to strive for consistency in results, aiming to build on its legacy and rise through the ranks in League One.

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Exeter City Pitch and Amenities

Exeter City’s St James Park, established in 1904, is a historic stadium located in the heart of Exeter. The ground has been the club’s home since its formation and holds a special place in the hearts of supporters. With a capacity of over 8,000, it combines modern amenities with a traditional football atmosphere.

The most recent changes to St James Park came during a redevelopment project completed in 2018. This upgrade included the construction of the modern Stagecoach Adam Stansfield Stand, named in honour of the late club legend. The redevelopment also improved the away end, upgraded hospitality facilities, and enhanced accessibility throughout the ground. These changes not only increased capacity but also provided a more inclusive and enjoyable matchday experience for fans.

The upgrades have strengthened St James Park’s reputation as a welcoming and vibrant venue.

Exeter City Fan Base and Support

Exeter City enjoys unwavering support from its loyal fan base, known as the “Grecians.” Fans are deeply connected to the club, reflected in its supporter-owned model. Organised groups like the Exeter Exiles add vibrancy to the club’s community, contributing to the electric atmosphere at St James Park.

The Sly Crew was a well-known group of Exeter City supporters who emerged in the 1980s. They were part of the football casual subculture that gained prominence across the UK during that era. The group, like others of its kind, was characterised by its distinct fashion, loyalty to its team, and reputation for occasionally engaging in confrontations with rival supporters.

Despite this notoriety, the Sly Crew were also recognised for their passionate support of Exeter City, often travelling to away matches and making their presence felt in the stands. Over time, the group’s influence waned as football evolved, but their legacy remains a notable chapter in the club’s fan culture history. Today, Exeter City’s supporters are known for their inclusivity and dedication, reflecting a broader shift in fan behaviour and culture.

For more information or to connect with Exeter City supporters, visit the club’s official website.

Exeter City Rivalries and Notable Matches

Exeter City has fierce rivalries with Plymouth Argyle and Torquay United, both steeped in history and passion. Here are highlights of these rivalries:

• Plymouth Argyle (The Devon Derby):
  • Head-to-head: Exeter wins: 26 | Draws: 26 | Plymouth wins: 37.
  • Recent clashes include a 1–0 loss at St James Park in April 2023.
  • Memorable win: Exeter’s 4–0 victory in League Two (October 2019).
  • Upcoming match: None scheduled this season.
• Torquay United:
  • Head-to-head: Exeter wins: 43 | Draws: 36 | Torquay wins: 38.
  • A historic rivalry marked by thrilling games like Exeter’s 4–3 win in December 2007.
  • Recent clash: Exeter’s 1–2 loss in April 2014.
  • Upcoming match: None scheduled this season.

These rivalries bring out the passion of both clubs’ supporters and add spice to their seasons. However, given the different divisions the clubs are in, Exeter won’t face either team this season.

Exeter City Facts

Exeter City History

Exeter City Football Club, founded in 1901, has long been a cornerstone of the Devon community. Emerging from the merger of two local teams, the club began its journey at St James Park, which remains its home to this day. Initially competing in regional leagues, Exeter joined the Football League in 1920, marking a significant step in its evolution.

The club faced early challenges, including financial struggles and fluctuating performances. However, moments of triumph cemented its legacy, such as reaching the FA Cup sixth round in 1931 and securing promotion from the Fourth Division in 1964. Exeter also made history in 1914 as the first English club to tour South America, playing against teams in Argentina and Brazil.

Exeter enjoyed a landmark achievement in 1990 by winning the Fourth Division title, the club’s only league championship to date. Another transformative period came in 2003, when the club was relegated to the Conference (non-league). Facing significant financial difficulties, supporters rallied behind the club and established a fan-owned model. The team’s resurgence began under this structure, culminating in their return to the Football League in 2008 after a dramatic 1–0 play-off final victory against Cambridge United.

The club has since developed a reputation for producing top-tier talent, notably selling Ollie Watkins to Brentford in 2017 for a record fee, which later helped secure Exeter’s financial stability. These achievements reflect the club’s resilience, adaptability, and the vital role of its supporter-driven ethos.

Exeter City Social Media Links

Stay connected with Exeter City Football Club through social media to get the latest updates, match highlights, and behind-the-scenes content. Following the club online keeps fans engaged and part of the community. Visit the official website and follow them on Twitter for real-time news and exclusive content.

Exeter City Outlook and Forecast

Exeter City enters the current season with a focus on maintaining stability in League One and building on recent progress. The team aims for a mid-table finish, leveraging a mix of experienced players and promising youth talents developed through its academy.

In terms of transfers, the club may look to strengthen key areas such as attacking depth and defencive resilience during the upcoming windows. Strategic signings that align with the club’s budget-conscious, long-term approach could bolster their push for consistency. Retaining influential players and integrating loan signings effectively will be critical to achieving their objectives.

Exeter’s commitment to possession-based football and disciplined organisation under manager Gary Caldwell offers optimism for steady performances. With strong fan support and a clear strategy, the club is well-positioned to remain competitive in League One and continue its trajectory of sustainable growth.

Frequently Asked Questions on Exeter City Football Club

How much would it cost to buy Exeter City Football Club?

Exeter City is a fan-owned club, and ownership lies with the Exeter City Supporters’ Trust. It is not available for private purchase, as the trust operates on a model prioritising community and supporter involvement. Exeter City’s estimated net worth in 2022 was £5,536,500.

Are Exeter City fan-owned?

Yes, Exeter City has been fan-owned since 2003. The Exeter City Supporters’ Trust holds the majority stake, ensuring decisions are made with the fans’ interests at heart.

What is the nickname of Exeter City Football Club?

The club is affectionately known as “The Grecians”. The exact origin remains uncertain. One popular theory connects it to St Sidwell’s Parish, where St James Park is located, as residents of the area were historically referred to as “Greeks.” Another explanation suggests the nickname stems from a medieval rivalry between those living inside Exeter’s city walls, known as “Romans,” and those outside, particularly in St Sidwell’s, who were called “Greeks.”

Is Exeter City a big club?

Exeter City is not considered a big club by traditional standards but has a rich history, a loyal fan base, and a strong community presence, making it significant within its league and region.

Where to watch Exeter City FC?

You can watch Exeter City’s matches live at St James Park, their home stadium, or via streaming services. For live match broadcasts, Sky Sports+ provides extensive coverage, allowing fans to watch over 20 Exeter City matches per season. Sky Sports+ is included at no extra cost for existing Sky Sports subscribers. Non-Sky subscribers can access all Sky Sports channels, including Sky Sports+, by purchasing a NOW Sports Day or Month Membership.