Mid-table obscurity
It could really go either way for Cambridge upon their return to the Football League. United have got a number of exciting players in their ranks (veteran Luke Chadwick is one, youngster Ryan Donaldson another) but it seems as though they lack backbone, despite having a relatively large squad. It’s unlikely they will threaten the promotion hopefuls too much but they look far too good to go down so a season of consolidation looks almost a certainty. Cheltenham aren’t fancied by the bookies to finish very high up the table but manager Mark Yates has made a series of very sensible and exciting signings in the likes of Asa Hall, Matt Taylor and goalkeeper Trevor Carson. The Robins look a striker short but they look like a team who could exceed expectations if things come together quickly.
Since Chris Wilder’s five year spell with Oxford came to end in January, there has been a period of instability which has seen two 
new managers and a new owner at the Kassam. Michael Appleton recently replaced Gary Waddock and he has so far brought in Michael Collins and ‘keeper George Long who both, on paper, look like good additions. The U’s also have a range of exciting young players and whilst they are not expected to challenge this season if Appleton gets the team playing for him in years to come, they could be a strong team in this league. Newport are sure to be exciting this season. They have lots of potency in attack but seem to lack depth in defence meaning that there is set to be plenty of goals at either end although they could struggle for consistency. Hartlepool also seem like a team who will lack consistency, despite having plenty of good players not least Luke James who earned plenty of plaudits for his goalscoring exploits last season.
Mansfield had an up and down season last time out and that is sure to continue despite the strong signing of Simon Heslop. If striker Sam Clucas can find his form again for the Stags they could find themselves in the top half but they appear to lack the necessary quality to earn promotion. Dagenham & Redbridge are, once again, one of the favourites to go down, mainly because of their lack of money, but in Wayne Burnett they have one of the best manager’s in the league, a brilliant midfield with the likes of Billy Bingham and Abu Ogogo whilst the signing of Jamie Cureton has given a huge statement of intent.
William Hill best bet – Cheltenham, top seven finish: 9/2
William Hill bet to avoid – Dagenham, relegation: 7/1
