It’s set to be another fast and furious season in the National League, with big guns Carlisle United installed as the bookies’ favourites but much-fancied Southend United, Forest Green Rovers, Boreham Wood, Hartlepool United and Barrow all expected to be there or thereabouts in the promotion race.
Scunthorpe United, Harrogate Town and, hopefully, FC Halifax Town could also be challenging for a coveted top-seven spot in what promises to be another ultra-competition campaign in the fifth tier.
We take a look at how every club in the division is shaping up ahead of the new season.
13. Hartlepool United
MANAGER: Lee Clark. LAST SEASON: 9th in National League. PROMOTION ODDS: 9/4. KEY MAN: Will Harris was sensational for Halifax last season, scoring 22 league goals. Whatever the rights and wrongs of his move to Hartlepool, they have a huge asset on their hands. PREDICTION: Play-off contenders. Photo: subm
14. Hornchurch
MANAGER: Daryl McMahon. LAST SEASON: 2nd in National League South. PROMOTION ODDS: 125/1. KEY MAN: The club's 'Columbian King' Angelo Balanta swept the board at their end-of-season awards after a hugely influential campaign, and the 36-year-old's experience will be vital in their first season at this level. PREDICTION: Relegation battle. Photo: subm
15. Kidderminster Harriers
MANAGER: Paul Wotton. LAST SEASON: 3rd in National League North. PROMOTION ODDS: 80/1. KEY MAN: Striker Lewis Walker scored ten goals for relegated Braintree last season and will hope to beat that this time with the Harriers. PREDICTION: Relegation battle. Photo: subm
16. Scunthorpe United
MANAGER: Andy Butler. LAST SEASON: 5th in National League. PROMOTION ODDS: 8/1. KEY MAN: Winger Luke Brennan made 59 goal contributions in 85 appearances at Buxton, and looks a very exciting addition for The Iron. PREDICTION: Play-off contenders. Photo: subm