NATIONAL LEAGUE / 2025-26

Might this be the fifth tier's most diverse and intriguing season yet? Former Manchester City and Baller League coaches do battle with an ambitious York and Cornish history-makers...

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ALDERSHOT TOWN

An FA Trophy win backed by nearly 20,000 fans at Wembley was a reminder of what a big club the Shots can be. Tommy Widdrington knows they need to be less leaky if they're to improve on 16th, though. Losing skipper Aaron Jones to Sutton and Jack Barham to Chelmsford is a blow, but Tristan Abrahams brings promotion nous and Ryan Hill adds attacking intent. 12th

ALTRINCHAM

Alty, disappointed to miss out on the playoffs, have since suffered three high-profile exits: Alex Newby (to York), Justin Amaluzor (Grimsby) and, most painfully, 23-goal Regan Linney to Carlisle. James Gale and striker Jimmy Knowles come in from EFL clubs, yet the shrewdest signing may be busy Boston midfielder Keaton Ward. 6th

BOREHAM WOOD

Luke Garrard (below) will be looking to make Wood one of the National League's toughest nuts once again after a year away. They've lost stalwart Ty Marsh as well as Kwesi Appiah, a big part of last season's promotion, but the spine of the squad - including a battle-hardened back line - have fared well at this level before. 16th

BOSTON UNITED

The Pilgrims looked certain to make an instant return to the National League North last year, before Graham Coughlan arrived in November. The former Newport County gaffer organised and cajoled his side into a remarkable escape, averaging two points per game from March to May. Handling the transition to going full-time will be vital to beating the drop again. 15th

BRACKLEY TOWN

Finally! After playoff heartache in six successive National League North campaigns, the Saints won the title to make sure this time. They've since nabbed Kidderminster's Zak Brown, while former Wolves midfielder Jack Price, 32, brings Championship pedigree. Though gaffer Gavin Cowan will demand more, their first year at this level is ultimately about trying to survive. 23rd