Michael Skubala has provided the latest on the state of play in his squad, with the January transfer window deadline fast approaching.
The Imps have surpassed many people’s expectations this month, securing deals for John Honohan, Deji Elerewe, Ryan Oné and Alfie Lloyd. City have also given contract extensions to several key members of the current squad, continuing their forward planning ahead of the summer.
As of now, Lincoln have managed to keep hold of all their key performers this season, and that has been no fluke. City saw Jovon Makama and Ethan Erhahon depart for big-money fees in the summer, but the situation is completely different mid-season.
“We’ve not only brought some fresh players into the group, but we’ve also managed to hold off interest in some of our players. That’s great support from the club,” Michael said in his pre-match press conference.
“We’re not under pressure to sell and we want to keep this group as strong as possible for what’s going to be a tough run in.”
“There are still 18 games to go, which is a long time, but we think we’re in a good position. If nothing happens again in this window, I’m really happy with where we’re at.”
The Imps were always likely to strengthen in this window, particularly when you look at the business that City’s promotion-chasing rivals are doing this month. All three of Lincoln’s loan players who were prematurely recalled by their parent clubs have joined another side this window.
Justin Obikwu has secured a permanent move to Queens Park Rangers in the Championship. Meanwhile, Francis Okoronkwo and Finley Barbrook have joined Doncaster Rovers and Colchester United, respectively.
Despite the squad turnover, Michael has maintained his cool throughout. But the Imps boss hasn’t ruled out one final incoming this month.
“If there’s something that can really add, not just quality and talent but also support in areas of the pitch we want, we might look at it. It’s been a calm window for us.
“Behind the scenes it might not feel calm, but we’ve done some great business with renewals and extensions as well. It’s not just been about incomings. It’s been busy with adding extensions to players that have earned it.”
One final departure remains on the cards. Lewis Montsma looked likely to leave the Imps this month, with Shrewsbury Town a possible destination. But Salop sacked former Imps manager Michael Appleton just a couple of days ago.
That, along with the situation surrounding Adam Jackson, means any outgoing for the Dutch defender hangs in the balance.
“It’s a tricky one because Jacko’s still not back fit. Lewis has been linked with a few things, but we’ve sat down and spoken. If it’s right for him moving forward, then we probably would let him go.
“He’s training really well and wants to get back into the team if he’s here. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s here and I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s not.”
Regardless of whether Lewis does remain in Lincolnshire this window, it’s been a desperately disappointing few years for the Imps centre-half. And his departure feels inevitable in the near future, be it now or in the summer.
But the Imps feel well-placed without him, and there will be great excitement to see what Elerewe can bring in the coming months.