Lincoln City

Formed in 1884, Lincoln City FC was one of the founding members of the old Second Division. Success has been limited for the Imps, with a ten-year spell in the Second Division, their most successful stint coming in the 1950s. They do hold the record for the most points under the old two points for a win system, amassing 74 in the 1975/76 season. They were the first club to be automatically relegated out of the Football League in 1987 and the first to bounce back immediately the following year. In more recent times, they won trophies in three successful seasons, the National League (2017), the Checkatrade Trophy (2018) and League Two (2019), as well as making the quarter-finals of the FA Cup while a non-league side in 2017.

To learn more about the club's background, accomplishments, and recent news, check out The Real EFL

Lincoln City Updates

Lincoln City are currently a League One team, having been in the third tier for six seasons. They're generally considered one of the better sides in the division, and whilst they operate on a midtable budget, they are aiming for a third-successive top-half finish in the 2024/25 season. Under manager Michael Skubala, they've established themselves as a side that is hard to beat and develop younger players. Brennan Johnson and Morgan Rogers, both now playing Premier League football, spent time on loan at Lincoln City.

As of the 2024/25 season, the club have extended their squad to around 24 players, which is as big as at any point since they came back into the Football League, and the expectation is they will remain in and around the top six, seeking to emulate the play-off campaign of 2020/21, in which they were just 90 minutes from a spot in the Championship.

Lincoln City Transfer News and Rumors

Lincoln City's reputation as a club that develops players means there's always speculation around their key figures. The most recent to move on were Lukas Jensen (Millwall) and Lasse Sorensen (Huddersfield), netting the club around £1 million. There's lots of speculation around Ethan Erhahon, a central midfielder signed from St Mirren - he's been linked with a Championship move. However, the club have invested in the next line of exciting talent, with Irish attacker Jack Moylan stealing headlines with some exciting goals, one of which was on national television against Chesham in the FA Cup. There's also a steady stream of players coming out of their academy, with Jovon Makama a tall and quick striker catching the eye of some Championship clubs.

Lincoln City Signings

Lincoln City FC has strengthened its lineup with key signings, bringing in experience, such as Tendayi Darikwa,  and youthful potential like JJ McKiernan to enhance their competitiveness this season. The club have sought to have at least two players for each position, hence making so many new signings.

Player	Age	Nationality	Left	Fee	Contract Duration
Tendayi Darikwa	32	Zimbabwean English	Apollon Limassol Cyprus League	Free	1 year
Tom Bayliss	25	English	Shrewsbury Town League One	Free	2 years
Dom Jeffries	22	Welsh	Gillingham League Two	Undisclosed	2 years
Erik Ring	22	Swedish	AIK Allsvenskan	Undisclosed	Undisclosed
Tom Hamer	24	English	Burton Albion League One	Free	Undisclosed
Conor McGrandles	28	Scottish	Charlton Athletic League One	Free	2 years

Lincoln City Key Matches of the Season

The Imps have been paired with local rivals Mansfield Town this season, and both games against the Stags promise to be huge. There's been a cup game against Grimsby, and on New Year's Day, old enemy Steve Evans returns to the Bank for his usual barracking - that's if Rotherham haven't already sacked him by them. The April Fool's Day game with Huddersfield promises to be huge as well - it's the first time the Terriers will come to Lincoln since stealing Danny Cowley, Harry Toffolo and Lasse Sorensen.

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Lincoln City Key achievements

Lincoln City have lifted seven titles in their history. They won the old Third Division (North) on three occasions, the most recent being in 1952. They've won the Fourth Division once, in 1976, and League Two once, in 2019. Twice, they've had to fight their way back from the non-league, winning the GMVC in 1988 and the National League in 2017. The 1988 win was particularly impressive, as they were the first club to be automatically relegated out of the Football League just 12 months prior. In 2018, they made their first-ever visit to Wembley, beating Shrewsbury Town in the Checkatrade Trophy.

They also became the first non-league club in over a century to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals in 2017, becoming one of only a handful of non-league clubs to win away against Premier League opposition when they beat Burnley in the fifth round.

Lincoln City Current Squad

Lincoln City have a young squad, one of the youngest in League One, blended with a handful of experienced players.

Lincoln City Attackers

Lincoln City have six out-and-out strikers. Tyler Walker and Rob Street are on the fringes of their attack, while Bailey Cadamarteri is on loan from Sheffield Wednesday.

Their main striker is Ben House, signed from non-league Eastleigh. House is an industrious centre forward, one of the best pressing forwards in the division. He usually partners Jovon Makama in attack, a young striker who has progressed through the club's academy.

Lincoln City Midfielders

Lincoln City's main midfield consists of three players. Ethan Erhahon is the holding midfielder, while Conor McGrandles also tends to be a starter. Former Manchester United man Ethan Hamilton has come back from a long term injury and is regarded as a first team player, while Dom Jeffries, Tom Bayliss and JJ McKiernan are also vying for a starting spot.

Lincoln City Defenders

Lincoln City play with a back three, dominated by captain Paudie O'Connor. On his left is academy product Sean Roughan, and Ireland Under 21 international, while Adam Jackson and Tom Hamer usually battle for the right-sided spot. Lewis Montsma is a fan favourite returning from two ACL injuries and he makes up their central defenders. At wing back, Tendayi Darikwa and Reeco Hackett are first choices.

Lincoln City Goalkeepers

Lincoln City's goalkeeper is George Wickens, signed from Fulham for a six-figure sum in the summer of 2024. He has two deputies - Zack Jeacock, who arrived on a free transfer having previously been with Birmingham City, and Jamie Pardington, who was at Cheltenham.

Lincoln City Managing and Coaching Staff

Michael Skubala (Head Coach)

Michael Skubala is Lincoln City's head coach, appointed in November 2023. He began coaching while teaching PE at Lutterworth College, working with non-league Barwell and the academies at Coventry City and Nottingham Forest. He then became director of football at Loughborough University and was recruited by the FA to coach England's national futsal team, achieving their highest world ranking and developing future Premier League player Max Kilman. Moving on to England U18’s, he also served as a UEFA advisor. In 2022, he joined Leeds United as U21 head coach and became interim head coach of the first team in February 2023, later becoming a first-team coach under Javi Gracia. He narrowly missed out on the play-offs in his first season as Imps coach, missing out on the final day.

Tom Shaw (Coach)

Tom Shaw had a modest playing career, featuring for Cambridge United and Rushden and Diamonds. In 2014, Shaw became Academy Lead Coach at Nottingham Forest, moving to Derby County in the same role a year later until 2017. He served as Player/Assistant Manager at Chester (2015–2018) and joined Lincoln City as lead PDP Coach in 2018. In 2021, he was appointed head coach at Gainsborough Trinity, a role he left in May 2022. Shaw then joined Lincoln City's first team staff, mentored by Mike Garrity. In October 2023, Shaw briefly became Lincoln’s interim head coach, overseeing three wins in seven matches before becoming assistant head coach under new head Michael Skubala in November 2023.

Chris Cohen (Coach)

Cohen had a good playing career, notably with Nottingham Forest for whom he turned out more than 300 times. In September 2020, Cohen became first-team coach at Luton Town, later promoted to assistant manager in 2022. He joined Southampton with Nathan Jones in November 2022 but left after Jones’ dismissal in February 2023. Cohen moved to Lincoln City in November 2023, initially assisting interim head coach Tom Shaw, then returned as assistant head coach in January 2024. In June, he joined Stoke City as assistant head coach but left in September. On 4 November 2024, he rejoined Lincoln City’s staff.

Lincoln City Former Managers & Key Coaches

• Mark Kennedy: Kennedy, a former Premier League player, took the Imps to 11^th in his only full season, as well as impressive cup runs that saw them play West Ham United and Southampton.

• Michael Appleton: Appleton, a former Manchester United player, took Lincoln to the League One play-off final, where they were narrowly beaten. In the same season, they were within a whisker of a Wembley final, losing to Sunderland on penalties in the Checkatrade Trophy.

• Danny Cowley: Danny Cowley is perhaps the most successful Lincoln City manager of all time. He took over a team languishing in the National League, guiding them to the title in 2017. In the same season, they made the FA Cup Quarter Final, the first non-league team to do so in over a century. The following season, Cowley took Lincoln to their first-ever Wembley final, where they won the Checkatrade Trophy.. He completed a triple crown the following season when he guided the club to the League Two title, their first Football League title since 1976.

• Chris Moyses: Moyses played an important part in holding the club together in the National League. Working for free and juggling a full time job, he laid the foundations for Danny Cowley, signing key players such as Matt Rhead and Luke Waterfall.

Lincoln City Legends

Alan Marriott 1999-2008

A reliable goalkeeper, Marriott played 351 games. Known for his shot-stopping skills, he was a pivotal figure during Lincoln’s playoff campaigns.

Dave Smith 1968-1978

A skillful wide man, Smith bagged 52 league goals in more than 300 outing for the Imps. His creative play in midfield helped Lincoln secure the Division Four title in 1976.

Tony Emery 1946-1959

Emery was a defensive stalwart and, up until Grant Brown's achievements, was the club's record appearance holder with 428 EFL outings. He was celebrated for his tough tackling and defensive consistency.

Johnny Campbell

A prolific attacker, Campbell scored 104 goals in 184 appearances for the Imps. His goals helped Lincoln achieve promotion to Division Two in 1952.

Gordon Hobson (1977-1985, 1988-1990)

A versatile forward, Hobson had two spells with the Imps, playing in the First Division between those stints. He scored 73 league goals in 282 outings in his first spell, returning in 1988 to hit a further 23 in 61 outings.

Andy Graver (1950-1954, 1955, 1958-1961)

Andy Graver is widely regarded as Lincoln City’s greatest-ever striker, having scored 106 goals in just 170 appearances during his initial spell from 1950 to 1954. After brief stints with Newcastle United and Leicester City, Graver returned to Lincoln in 1955, adding another 4 goals in 15 games.

Grant Brown (1989-2002)

Between 1989 and 2002, Brown became a Lincoln legend, setting a club record with 407 league appearances and scoring 15 goals. Known for his reliability and leadership in defence, he was a crucial presence at Sincil Bank. Lincoln City Team Metrics and Performance

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Lincoln City Pitch and Amenities

Sincil Bank Stadium, known as the LNER Stadium, has been the home of Lincoln City FC since 1895. Located near the Sincil Drain, the stadium became known for its intimate, passionate atmosphere, deeply embedding itself in the club's identity and local community. Initially a modest ground, Sincil Bank evolved over the years, with major renovations adding four new stands since the late eighties.

With a seating capacity of over 10,000, the stadium has witnessed many pivotal moments, including Lincoln City’s promotion triumphs and FA Cup runs. Its compact design keeps fans close to the action, amplifying the noise and creating a fortress-like environment. Though the club announced relocation plans, Sincil Bank remains symbolic of Lincoln City's heritage, representing over a century of tradition, loyal supporters, and the highs and lows of Lincoln City’s football journey.

Lincoln City Fan Base and Support

Lincoln City’s fan base, affectionately known as the "Imps," is renowned for its unwavering loyalty and passionate support. Through promotions, relegations, and cup runs, Imps fans have consistently filled Sincil Bank, creating a vibrant, supportive atmosphere. Organized supporter groups like the "617 Squadron" are central to the fan culture, known for their enthusiastic chanting and colourful displays that enhance matchday experiences. The Imps online supporters tend to gather on the Stacey West Blog pages, or Vital Lincoln City's message boards.

Lincoln City Rivalries and Notable Matches

Lincoln City has several notable rivalries with the most intense being the Lincolnshire Derby against Grimsby Town. These matchups have a rich history and are known for drawing passionate fans who bring an electric atmosphere dating back to the 19th century. One of the most memorable recent encounters was Lincoln’s thrilling 5-0 victory over Grimsby in 2006, although the two teams haven't met in league action recently due to Grimsby's struggles.

Another key rivalry for Lincoln is with Scunthorpe United, another local opponent with a long history of heated matchups. Notably, the two clubs met in the 2003 play-off semi-finals, with the Imps winning both encounters. The Iron have slipped out of the league recently, and the clubs haven't met in league action since  Lincoln's 2-0 win on Sky TV in 2005.

Peterborough United also shares a significant, albeit less regional, rivalry with Lincoln City. Posh have a track record of taking Lincoln's best players and even a manager, making their games heated despite not being geographically important.

Lincoln City Facts

Lincoln City History

Lincoln City FC, founded in 1884, is deeply rooted in Lincolnshire's football heritage. The club emerged from a local passion for the sport, with early ambitions to provide the region a team that reflected its hardworking, close-knit community values. Facing initial challenges such as limited resources and regional competition, Lincoln City quickly fostered a loyal fan base, despite often fighting against financial hardships.

Throughout it's history, the club has achieved significant milestones. Lincoln City was a founding member of the Second Division in 1892 and has enjoyed various promotions. In 1976, the club won Division Four with a record points total, something that can never be matched as it came under the two points-for-a-win system.

Their recent rise has been remarkable. Memorable matches, including the 2016-17 FA Cup run where Lincoln became the first non-league team in over a century to reach the quarter-finals, losing to Arsenal, further strengthened the club's identity both domestically, and internationally, helping to attract their current US investors.

In 2001/02, the club almost folded, but were saved from administration by supporters, led by future chairman Rob Bradley. The following season, with a side, cobbled together from non-league players and other’s offcuts, they made their first national final, losing in the playoffs. It was the first of five consecutive appearances, famously failing to gain promotion in all five.

In recent years, Lincoln City has experienced pivotal developments. The arrival of fresh management from Clive Nates has modernised the club's infrastructure and ambitions. Successes like their ascent to League One and challenges such as managerial changes and financial constraints have marked Lincoln City's journey into the modern era. However, the Imps continue to symbolise local pride, representing the perseverance and community spirit of Lincolnshire on the national football stage.

In the 2023–24 season, Lincoln City finished 7th in League One, narrowly missing the playoff spots. The team secured 20 wins, 14 draws, and 12 losses, amassing 74 points. They scored 65 goals, averaging 1.41 per game, and conceded 40, averaging 0.87 per game, resulting in a goal difference of +25. The Imps recorded 18 clean sheets throughout the season.

Historically, Lincoln City has experienced fluctuating league standings. They have spent 36 seasons in the second tier, 35 in the third, 40 in the fourth, and 10 seasons in non-league football. Notably, they won the Fourth Division title in the 1975–76 season and achieved promotion to League One in the 2018–19 season.

Predictions for the 2024–25 season suggest a strong performance, with some analysts tipping Lincoln City to finish in the top six and potentially secure a playoff position.

Lincoln City Social Media Links

Following Lincoln City on social media is essential for fans to stay connected with the latest news, match updates, and behind-the-scenes content, enhancing the sense of community among the "Imps" supporters. Engage with the club and be part of the journey by following them on Twitter (X) at @LincolnCity_FC

Lincoln City Outlook and Forecast

In 2024/25, the Imps are looking good for a top-ten finish. In terms of budget, the club are midtable at best, but they continue to get more out of their money than most. Several players are prime for selling, such as Etahn Erhahon and Jovon Makama, while a steady stream of young talent is also coming from the academy. Hanging on to manager Michael Skubala is key; under his guidance the club have a clear playing identity and tactical flexibility.

They're also well-backed by their owners, not overspending, but with any reasonable losses covered by the group of investors. The Imps are perfectly placed to kick on under an independent regulator but will not be drawn into overspending to match the likes of Wycombe and Bristol Rovers.

Frequently Asked Questions on Lincoln City Football Club

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

The exact cost to purchase Lincoln City Football Club isn't publicly disclosed, as it would depend on various factors, including the club's financial health, assets, and negotiations with current owners.

Who owns Lincoln City Football Club?

Lincoln City FC is primarily owned by Lincoln City Holdings Ltd, which holds 91.74% of the club's issued share capital. Key stakeholders within this holding company include Sportvest Capital LLP, owned by Clive Nates, Sean Melnick, and Ashley Mendelowitz, and HJ-LCFC Holdings LLC, owned by the Jabara family.

Why is Lincoln City called Imps?

The club's nickname, "The Imps," originates from the Lincoln Imp, a legendary creature associated with local folklore and depicted in Lincoln Cathedral. This emblem has become a symbol of the city and the football club.

What football team is called Imps?

Lincoln City FC is commonly referred to as "The Imps," a nickname embraced by fans and the community.

What is the emblem of Lincoln City?

The club's emblem features the Lincoln Imp, reflecting its deep connection to local heritage and the city's iconic cathedral. It was recently changed to match a more simplistic design, first seen in the late eighties.

Is Lincoln City a big club?

While Lincoln City FC may not be considered a "big club" in terms of global recognition, it holds significant importance within English football, especially in the lower leagues, and boasts a dedicated fan base.

Where to watch Lincoln City FC?

Fans can watch Lincoln City FC matches live at their home ground, Sincil Bank Stadium, known for sponsorship reasons as the LNER Stadium in Lincoln. Additionally, matches are often broadcast on local sports channels, and depending on broadcasting rights and match schedules, live streaming may be available through the club's official website or associated platforms.