9th (Joint). Lee Thorpe – 66 starts, 2 sub, 20 goals
Thorpe scored 57 league goals for the Imps, but 37 of those came prior top the 2000/01 season.
The big man was a no-nonsense centre-forward from the old school. Imposing, physical, and aggressive in the air, he did much of his best work with his back to the goal. In an era where substance often trumped style, Thorpe delivered what City needed—20 league goals and a focal point for the long ball game.
He may not top highlight reels, but defenders won’t forget him.
9th (Joint). John Akinde – 44 starts, 24 sub, 20 goals
It’s a good job penalties are included, right?
Akinde’s style wasn’t to everyone’s taste, but his output was solid and he was a key cog in the title-winning League Two side. Often berated, he came to use with a decent rate of goals, and left with the same, alebit many from 12 yards.
His 20 league strikes came from a mix of spot-kicks, back-post tap-ins, and sheer persistence. Frustrating at times for some, but effective and integral to City’s modern revival.