Author: Mark Bateman

Fleetwood Town have secured promotion up to England’s Football League, riding a wave of promotions all the way from the lower reaches of the non-league system. The Cod Army may not be finished yet, as they spy even more success.

AFC Wimbledon and MK Dons could meet on the field of play sooner rather than later. Yet there is still an uneasiness about their relationship. Could this be remedied if MK dropped the ‘Dons’?

Darlington are battling for their very survival, while illustrious neighbours such as Newcastle, Sunderland and Middlesbrough experience an upturn in fortunes. For the Quakers, simply being in business by the end of the season will be a success.

The death of Wales manager Gary Speed has robbed football of one of its most popular stars. The Welshman had enjoyed a successful playing career and more was set to come in the dugout.

Nigel Pearson’s decision to swap the hot seat at Hull City for a return to Leicester City angered many Tigers’ supporters. But Pearson’s move could be the best thing to have happened to both Hull and Leicester respectively.

Leeds United chairman Ken Bates is coming in for increasingly high levels of criticism due to his running of the club and reluctance to splash the cash. The former Chelsea supremo though is on the right track.

Petea Valcov was a prolific goal-getter who picked up five titles before the Second World War arrived. Despite eventual death in the conflict, his achievements have not been forgotten.

The appointment of ex-England boss Terry Venables as Leeds’ new manager in 2002 was surprising. Venables reign was full of incident at a critical time for the club.

A well loved and loyal servant of Leeds United, the Earl of Harewood was president of England’s Football Association when the country won the World Cup. He had a notable Second World War, even seeing his death warrant signed by Adolf Hitler himself.

Leeds United are desperate to return to the Premier League and to do so could enlist the services of a trio of former favourites. But manager Simon Grayson must weigh up the risk-reward ratio.