Lincoln set to keep squad together for Championship challenge after memorable promotion

Lincoln City are planning to keep the core of their promotion-winning squad together after their long-awaited return to the second-tier, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

Michael Skubala’s impressive Imps will be playing Championship football next season after a 2-1 victory at Reading on Easter Monday saw them secure promotion back to the second flight for the first time since 1961.

City have been shrewd in their quest for promotion in recent years and it has been a slow build under Skubala to get the club to the Championship.

Our sources have been told the Imps’ leadership will not splash the cash in their quest to stay in the Championship.

It is understood the club will still adhere to a strict budget and do not want to go the same way as other clubs who have overspent in their pursuit of glory in recent years.

The club have tied down their stars this season 

There is an acceptance they will need to sign Championship experience, but it is understood the bulk of the squad who have helped them storm to promotion will be given the chance next season.

Tendayi Darikwa, Reeco Hackett, Conor McGrandles, Adam Reach, Ben House, Dom Jefferies and Jack Moylan — who scored the promotion-clinching winner at Reading — have all penned extensions at the club this season.

It is understood that the club will now open talks with other members of the squad now promotion has been secured.

Slow & Steady Rise

To put it into perspective, a decade ago the club were plying their trade in the National League.

And their story is not one of throwing money at success like other clubs have done in recent years.

They have one of the more mediocre budgets among top League One clubs. 

Skubala, whose side are determined to go up as champions, said: “It’s an unbelievable feeling now. The lads have been excellent all season and to get the job done today, to get promoted on Easter Monday, just epitomises our season.”