As June draws to a close and July begins, it starts to feel like the new season is upon us, writes Olly Burton.
League One in 25/26 promises to be yet another tough season for Lincoln, with teams like Luton and Huddersfield likely to be big spenders.
Despite this, City have a strong squad of their own, so who could be the standout performers in the upcoming campaign?
Tom Hamer
Beginning at the back, Tom Hamer was unlucky to have only featured 23 times in League One last season, only starting 14 games for The Imps in the process. Though perhaps not the flashiest signing, he was one of the most functional, as the 25-year-old began to establish himself in the team after his late equaliser against Blackpool in October. Hamer then enjoyed a run of 4 starts in 5 games that month, until he suffered a setback through injury in the first half at home to Northampton, in which he had earlier scored, ruling him out until March.
Upon his return, the defender impressed alongside both Paudie O’Connor and Adam Jackson in becoming a key figure as Lincoln secured a third consecutive top-half finish in League One. Capable of playing at right-back as well as centre-half, Hamer offers a range of versatility that is required for all sides with promotion aspirations, suggesting that he could be utilised in numerous roles by Michael Skubala where needed. Hamer could possibly fill in at left-wingback should City return to a 5, as he had appeared there on numerous occasions during his time at Burton Albion.
The Englishman’s attributes also complement the squad’s alternatives well. Hamer is quite possibly the quickest of the defenders at the club, a necessity if it is to be Sonny Bradley or Adam Jackson who could pair with him in defence. Whereas Bradley, for instance, is older and possibly slower, Hamer will be able to make up for that weakness by providing much-needed athleticism. Good in the air and in the tackle, Hamer managed to win 61.5% of his duels and 69% of tackles in his last season at the Brewers, providing evidence that he is also capable of helping to fill the Paudie O’Connor-shaped hole alongside one of Bradley, Jackson or Montsma.
Also, a weapon thanks to his long throw, Hamer will be of use to Skubala’s tactics to try and reclaim the title of the 92’s most prolific set piece team. We must also not forget that in his short playing time last season, the Englishman managed to score two goals as well as chipping in with an assist, suggesting he also provides a threat in and around the opposition box.
Verdict: I can see Tom Hamer being the first-choice centre back for Michael Skubala in the upcoming season, as his age will allow him to be available for the Saturday-Tuesday schedule. Likely to be paired with Sonny Bradley, City’s defence is shaping up well.