Leon Wobschall

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder says he is determined to continue working through the club’s off-field crisis after COH Sports Bidco Limited, the company used by Helmy Eltoukhy and Steve Rosen to acquire the club, was placed into liquidation. United World says around £35 million remains unpaid from the 2024 sale and has warned that the owners could lose control, while the EFL and Independent Football Regulator assess potential consequences, including a possible points deduction. Wilder also confirmed that young midfielder Louie Marsh is expected to leave on loan before the transfer deadline, with Barnsley among the interested clubs.

Sheffield Wednesday and Bradford City player ratings from their League One derby at Hillsborough assess Wednesday as stronger early on before Bradford improved significantly after half-time. Bradford goalkeeper McCracken, Pennington, Baldwin, Gillesphey, Neufville and Touray received 7/10, while Wednesday's M. Lowe was their highest-rated player on 7. Wednesday players including Valery and J. Lowe were marked down for inconsistent displays or missed chances, while Bradford's Baldwin scored the decisive goal and several teammates made important second-half contributions.

Sheffield Wednesday dominated the first half at Hillsborough but failed to convert their chances. Bradford City improved sharply after the break, with Aden Baldwin scoring from close range after a corner, and then sustained pressure through an intense pressing game. Wednesday could not produce an effective response despite late substitutions, while Bradford held on to win 1–0, move to the top of League One and claim their first league victory at Hillsborough since 2005.

Rotherham United head coach Alex Bruce says the club has rejected an offer for wing-back Denzel Hall because it was well below the player's valuation. Hall, who has impressed since joining Rotherham last summer, has attracted interest from Salford City and has previously been linked with Preston. Bruce says Rotherham does not want to lose players while operating with a small squad and would prefer to add reinforcements, although any decision to sell rests with the chairman and Steve McClaren.

Hull City defender Cathal McCarthy has signed a new five-year contract and joined Kilmarnock on a season-long loan to continue his development. The 19-year-old, who can also play in midfield, made eight appearances for Hull last season before an injury ruled him out of the club's Championship play-off final run. McCarthy had reportedly attracted interest from Aberdeen, Nottingham Forest and other clubs before Hull agreed to the loan move.

Huddersfield Town head coach Martin Drury says it is too early to decide whether 19-year-old striker George Sebine will be loaned out during the 2026-27 season. Sebine impressed in training and has been praised for his finishing and composure, while veteran striker Ashley Fletcher is helping mentor him. Drury currently expects Sebine to remain with Huddersfield, although a future loan remains possible if it would aid his development.

Huddersfield Town provide three players and manager Martin Drury for The Yorkshire Post’s inaugural Yorkshire Team of the Week for the 2026–27 league campaign. The selection also includes representatives from every EFL club in Yorkshire, with standout performances including York City left-back Harry Boyes’ two-goal debut, Middlesbrough striker Will Lankshear’s decisive scoring, and strong displays from players at Barnsley, Bradford City, Sheffield United, Sheffield Wednesday, Rotherham United and Doncaster Rovers.

Huddersfield Town beat AFC Wimbledon 3-0 in an impressive League One opener, despite playing with ten men for around 70 minutes following Bali Mumba’s dismissal. Derensili Sanches Fernandes scored twice on his league debut, while Joe Taylor, Ashley Fletcher and Radinio Balker also stood out. The performance and enthusiastic home support offered an encouraging first step in rebuilding the connection between Town and fans after several disappointing seasons, though the result is presented as a promising beginning rather than proof of a lasting turnaround.

Derensili Sanches Fernandes made a spectacular Huddersfield Town league debut, scoring twice in a 3–0 victory over AFC Wimbledon and celebrating his second goal with a golden mask linked to his Excelsior nickname. Despite Bali Mumba's 29th-minute dismissal, Huddersfield defended resolutely and maintained their advantage, with Joe Taylor, Ashley Fletcher and Radinio Balker also impressing. The performance created a markedly more positive atmosphere among supporters after several disappointing seasons, although the column warns that it should not yet be treated as proof of a sustained revival.

Huddersfield Town opened their 2026-27 League One campaign with a 3-0 win at AFC Wimbledon, powered by two early goals from debutant Derensli Sanches Fernandes and a late finish from Bojan Radulovic. Head coach Martin Drury praised his team's resilience after Bali Mumba was sent off in the 29th minute, forcing Huddersfield to defend with ten men for more than 70 minutes. Drury also highlighted Joe Taylor's energetic display and assist, explaining that Taylor was substituted at half-time for tactical and physical reasons, and said he had agreed with the forward to manage his tendency to become frustrated.

Huddersfield Town opened their 2026–27 League One campaign with a 3–0 win over AFC Wimbledon. Debutant Derensli Sanches Fernandes scored twice inside the first 16 minutes, but Bali Mumba’s 29th-minute red card left Huddersfield with 10 men for most of the match. Martin Drury’s side defended diligently and limited Wimbledon’s threat before substitute Bojan Radulovic returned from injury to add a late third goal.

Huddersfield Town opened their League One campaign with an impressive win over AFC Wimbledon at the Accu Stadium. Fernandes scored twice on his debut, while Joe Taylor contributed an excellent assist and several players received high marks for their performances. Huddersfield had to play with ten men after Mumba was sent off for a needless challenge on Ogundere, but the side remained dominant and managed the match effectively.

Middlesbrough face reigning League One champions Lincoln City at a sold-out Riverside Stadium, with expectation high after significant summer spending and the arrival of players including Will Lankshear and Radek Vitak. However, head coach Kim Hellberg has warned that Lincoln will pose a serious challenge, having gone almost a year unbeaten in competitive league football and recently beaten Derby away in the cup. The match also marks Lincoln’s return to second-tier football and their first visit to the Riverside.

Rotherham United manager Alex Bruce faces experienced Cheltenham Town boss Steve Cotterill in his first EFL league match. Bruce acknowledges Cotterill’s extensive managerial experience and expects a physically demanding contest. Rotherham’s poor away record, with only 11 wins in their last 92 league road games, makes victory particularly significant as Bruce seeks to build a competitive team that gives supporters reasons to be proud.

Daniel Stendel recalls beginning his first Barnsley tenure with a 4-0 opening-day win over Oxford United in 2018, but says similar success cannot be expected immediately against Bromley. Barnsley's current squad is still developing, includes several academy players, and needs additions and improvement. Stendel remains optimistic while stressing patience, hard work and the importance of building confidence and the right mentality.

Huddersfield Town midfielder Archie Collins said he rejected interest from higher-division clubs to join the club on a two-year deal after leaving Peterborough United as a free agent. Bradford City signed former Rotherham United and Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper Cameron Dawson on a one-year contract to compete with Jon McCracken after Sam Walker moved to Watford. Sheffield Wednesday forward Charlie McNeill also joined Crewe Alexandra on a season-long loan.

Rotherham United manager Alex Bruce has not yet decided whether Julian Eyestone or Ted Cann will start in goal against Cheltenham Town in the club’s League Two opener. Eyestone, a 20-year-old USA youth international, has joined on a season-long loan from Brentford and is Rotherham’s 11th summer signing. Bruce believes both goalkeepers are capable of claiming the number-one position, with the starter retaining the shirt only if performances justify it.

Hull City have signed 18-year-old Australian international centre-back Lucas Herrington from Colorado Rapids on a five-year contract for an undisclosed fee. Reports suggest the transfer could cost £11 million, with up to £3.7 million in add-ons and a 15% sell-on clause. Herrington, previously of Brisbane Roar, became Australia's youngest player to start a World Cup match and joins Hull as the club's ninth summer signing. He said the move and chance to play in the Premier League were a dream come true.

Bradford City goalkeeper Sam Walker is close to completing a permanent move to Championship club Watford after two and a half years at Valley Parade and 125 appearances. His departure follows the arrival of Jon McCracken, prompting Bradford to consider another senior goalkeeper, with Cameron Dawson linked. Rotherham United have signed 20-year-old USA youth international Julian Eyestone from Brentford on a season-long loan to compete with Ted Cann. Leeds United defender Sebastiaan Bornauw is also set to leave for Bundesliga club FC Hamburg on loan with a view to a permanent transfer, having made only five Premier League starts since joining from Wolfsburg.

Sheffield United have re-signed Kalvin Phillips on loan from Manchester City for the 2026–27 season. Phillips, who made only three appearances during his previous spell because of injury and suspension, said he wants to put that disappointing period right after recovering from knee surgery. Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca had left him out of the club’s pre-season tour and indicated he was not part of his plans. Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder praised Phillips’s character, experience and leadership qualities, while the club described the deal as an important addition to its squad.

The Yorkshire Post names its first Yorkshire Team of the Week for the 2026–27 campaign, with Sheffield Wednesday, Bradford City, Doncaster Rovers and Middlesbrough contributing two players each. The selection praises standout performances across the opening fixtures, including Tommy Simkin’s penalty save, Will Lankshear’s winning debut goal and Patrick Bamford’s contribution for Sheffield United. Chris Wilder is chosen as manager.

Barnsley defeated Wigan Athletic 6-5 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the EFL Cup, with debutant goalkeeper Rogan Ravenhill making three key saves in normal time and another decisive stop in the shoot-out. Head coach Daniel Stendel said Cieran Slicker is expected to miss time while awaiting specialist assessment, praised Ravenhill's performance, and confirmed that Barnsley’s future with influential forward Reyes Cleary remains uncertain. Cleary improved after moving into a more central role, while Cam McGeehan captained the side and scored the late equalizer.

Barnsley FC advanced in the EFL Cup after beating Wigan Athletic 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at Oakwell. Wigan dominated much of the match and led through Dara Costelloe, but missed several chances to put the tie beyond reach. Barnsley captain Cam McGeehan equalized in the 81st minute after good work from Reyes Cleary, before debutant goalkeeper Rogan Ravenhill saved Jon Mellish’s penalty and Josh Earl scored the decisive spot-kick. The result gave Daniel Stendel a winning start to his second spell in charge, although Barnsley’s intense attacking style was not yet fully established.

Barnsley’s EFL Cup first-round tie against Wigan Athletic produced mixed player ratings. Reyes Cleary was Barnsley’s standout performer with an 8 after posing a consistent threat, while Ravenhill, Kay and Connell also earned 7s. Several debutants and established players received 5s or 6s, reflecting a difficult match against a dominant Wigan side, though Barnsley players showed resilience and contributed to a late reward and penalty shoot-out save.

Harrogate Town begin their first National League campaign since 2020 against Solihull Moors with 11 new signings following relegation from the EFL. Manager Simon Weaver rejects the idea that the squad needs time to gel, although several players are unavailable. FC Halifax Town also face a major rebuild after losing key players Will Harris, Jay-Turner Cooke and Josh Hmani, leaving manager John McGrath focused on replacing their goals before the opener at Forest Green.

Doncaster Rovers will receive an unspecified sell-on payment after Ben Whiteman moved from Preston North End to Wrexham for £3 million. Manager Grant McCann says the club has reached its current playing-budget limit, although departures such as the expected sale of Jake Middleton could create room for further recruitment. Captain Owen Bailey has signed a new three-year contract, keeping him at Doncaster until summer 2029 after earning selection for the PFA League One Team of the Season.

Rotherham United head coach Alex Bruce says the club could complete the signing of one of three trialists within 24 hours as recruitment continues. Former Hull City and Manchester United defender Brandon Williams, Manchester United academy product Sonny Aljofree and goalkeeper Jake Turner are being assessed. Bruce praised the improving fitness of Williams, described Aljofree as excellent, and highlighted Turner's League Two experience, with decisions on the trio expected over the coming days or weeks. Rotherham have already made nine summer signings, including Tom Bradshaw, Ewan Otoo and Kieran Ngwenya.

Barnsley winger Charlie Lennon has joined Yeovil Town on a youth loan until 3 January, with Barnsley retaining a recall option after the first 28 days. The 20-year-old joined Barnsley permanently from Middlesbrough in January on a three-and-a-half-year contract, having previously impressed during a loan spell at Darlington. He made three appearances for Barnsley last season and scored on his debut against Wigan.

Rotherham United have signed former Barnsley and Millwall striker Tom Bradshaw on a one-year contract with an additional club option. The 33-year-old joins as a free agent after leaving Oxford United and becomes Rotherham’s ninth summer signing. Bradshaw previously scored 21 goals in 93 appearances for Barnsley and 45 in 211 appearances for Millwall, while his most recent loan spell at Barnsley produced three goals in 19 appearances.

Rotherham United manager Alex Bruce says the club is close to signing former Barnsley and Millwall striker Tom Bradshaw, who would become the team’s ninth close-season arrival. Bruce believes Bradshaw’s experience, alongside Paul Mullin, will provide valuable leadership for a young squad entering the League Two season. He also says Rotherham still needs reinforcements, with trialists Brandon Williams and Sonny Aljofree remaining at the club and budget considerations shaping further decisions.

Scott Lindsey’s first match as York City manager ended in a 2–0 EFL Cup defeat to his former club Crawley Town. The result was overshadowed by York supporters’ vocal backing for sacked manager Stuart Maynard and chants calling for Lindsey’s dismissal. Lindsey said his experience caring for his late wife had given him perspective and insisted the hostility would not affect his commitment to the club, arguing that winning matches would eventually change supporters’ views. Defender Jeff King was set to return to training, while midfielder Craig Hewitt faced a spell out with a shoulder injury.

Scott Lindsey lost his first match as York City manager as former club Crawley Town won 2–0 in an EFL Cup preliminary-round tie. York supporters protested the dismissal of title-winning predecessor Stuart Maynard and booed Lindsey at full time, creating a hostile atmosphere ahead of the club’s return to League Two. Lindsey said his past personal hardships have given him perspective and that the criticism would not affect his commitment to York. Jeff King is nearing a return from an ankle problem, while Craig Hewitt is expected to miss time with a shoulder injury.

Rotherham United have signed former Celtic and Dunfermline utility player Ewan Otoo after a successful trial. The 23-year-old Glasgow-born defender and midfielder has agreed a two-year contract with an option for an additional year, becoming the club’s seventh summer signing. Otoo impressed with his versatility and combative style during pre-season after leaving Dunfermline when his contract expired.

Crawley Town defeated York City 2-0 in the EFL Cup, with Gianmarco Di Biase opening the scoring and Dani Orsi adding a late penalty. York improved after the break and came close to an equaliser, but missed chances and a strong performance from veteran goalkeeper Vito Mannone kept Crawley ahead. The result was overshadowed by York supporters’ repeated chants backing dismissed head coach Stuart Maynard and criticizing new manager Scott Lindsey, highlighting the unrest surrounding the recently promoted club.

York City player ratings from their EFL Cup preliminary-round match against Crawley Town highlight a generally solid but uneven return to the Football League. Most players received 6/10, while Grey was rated the standout performer on 7. Pearce struggled in his left-sided role and earned 5, while Akinyemi worked hard but missed a significant chance. McNally made an important debut save, Medley hit the bar, and Johnson conceded a late penalty.

Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Jarvis Thornton has signed a new two-year contract after making 27 appearances last season. Striker Ike Ugbo is leaving on loan for Apollon Limassol, seeking a fresh start after failing to score in the league during his previous two campaigns. Leicester City manager Russell Martin says he wants to keep Sheffield United target Harry Souttar and criticizes Chris Wilder for discussing the player. York City have signed left-back Harry Boyes from Southend United despite competition from Notts County.

Barnsley have signed 21-year-old Gillingham central defender Sam Gale for an undisclosed fee on a three-year contract, with an option for an additional year. Gale joins after a breakthrough 2025/26 season in which he was nominated for the EFL League Two Young Player of the Year award and named Gillingham's Young Player of the Season. Head coach Daniel Stendel praised his potential, mentality, ball-playing ability and physical attributes, while Gale said the move was an opportunity he could not turn down.

Bradford City defender Aden Baldwin has signed a two-year contract extension with an option for a further year. The 29-year-old, who joined from Notts County in 2024, has made 76 appearances and helped the club win promotion from League Two before contributing to last season's League One play-off campaign. Manager Graham Alexander said retaining Baldwin supports the club's goal of sustained improvement and believes the defender can continue to develop.

Experienced defender Tom Lees has joined National League club Harrogate Town after rejecting several Football League offers. The 35-year-old, who previously played for Leeds United, Sheffield Wednesday, Huddersfield Town and Peterborough United, cited his long connection to Harrogate and the club’s project. Sheffield Wednesday have also signed former MK Dons goalkeeper Connal Trueman on a one-year contract with an option for a further year, making him their tenth summer arrival.

Veteran defender Tom Lees has joined National League club Harrogate Town after leaving Peterborough United and training with Rotherham United. The 35-year-old, who has made 700 professional appearances, chose the club near his home despite receiving Football League offers. Lees said he was attracted by Harrogate’s local connection and ambitious project, while recruitment chief Lloyd Kerry praised his experience and leadership qualities.

The latest Sky Bet EFL broadcast selections have changed kick-off times for 112 fixtures between October 9, 2026 and January 9, 2027. Yorkshire clubs affected include Barnsley, Doncaster Rovers, Huddersfield Town, Middlesbrough, Rotherham United, Sheffield United, Sheffield Wednesday and York City, with notable televised derbies including Barnsley versus Sheffield Wednesday, Doncaster versus Huddersfield and Sheffield United versus Middlesbrough. Several matches have been moved to evening slots or earlier daytime kick-offs.

Bradford City manager Graham Alexander praised Will Swan’s aggressive approach and five-goal pre-season, saying the striker is determined to prove himself after his form faded late last season. Bradford beat Preston North End 3–2 and will finish preparations for the 2026–27 League One campaign against Salford City. Alexander said competition in attack is strong but the squad needs defensive reinforcement, while Joe Wright received the all-clear after an eye injury and George Lapslie awaits a scan for a quad problem.

Rotherham United have signed experienced striker Paul Mullin on a free transfer after his departure from Wrexham. Mullin scored 110 goals in 172 appearances for Wrexham and previously won the League Two Golden Boot with Cambridge United, though he struggled during loan spells at Bradford City and Wigan Athletic last season. Meanwhile, Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips is reportedly set to return to Sheffield United on loan after making only three appearances during his previous spell there, with injury and suspension limiting his involvement. City appear willing to move on from Phillips, who has also had disappointing loans at Ipswich Town and West Ham.

Rotherham United have signed former Wrexham and Bradford City striker Paul Mullin on a free transfer, with the 31-year-old agreeing a two-year contract. Mullin scored 110 goals in 172 appearances for Wrexham and previously won the League Two Golden Boot with Cambridge United, although he struggled for playing time and goals at Bradford last season. He becomes Rotherham’s sixth summer signing, while chief Alex Bruce indicated that another arrival could follow soon as the club rebuilds after relegation.

Doncaster Rovers winger Luke Molyneux has completed a move to Salford City for an undisclosed fee after four seasons at Doncaster. The 28-year-old declined a new contract despite having one year remaining, following a standout 2024-25 promotion campaign in which he won the club’s main player awards. Molyneux made 52 League One appearances last season, scoring eight goals and recording 11 assists. Doncaster had already signed former Cheltenham Town player Jordan Thomas as a contingency and had rejected one unnamed bid for Molyneux, according to manager Grant McCann.

Doncaster Rovers have signed former Cheltenham Town winger Jordan Thomas on a free transfer, giving him a three-year contract and making him the club’s ninth summer recruit. The 25-year-old scored eight goals and supplied six assists last season, earning Cheltenham’s Player of the Season award. Thomas and manager Grant McCann expressed enthusiasm about his move to League One and his potential development. Meanwhile, Doncaster midfielder Luke Molyneux is close to completing a transfer to Salford City.

Harrogate Town winger Reece Smith has joined League Two side Walsall for an undisclosed fee after making 52 appearances and scoring three goals during Harrogate's 2025–26 season. The 24-year-old was praised for his performances and community work, including being named PFA Community Champion. His departure follows transfers involving midfielder Jack Evans and defender Chanse Headman after Harrogate's relegation to the National League.

Rotherham United have signed Sheffield United defender Jili Buyabu on a season-long loan. The 22-year-old, who spent last season with Forest Green Rovers and made 37 appearances with seven goals, becomes Rotherham’s fifth summer signing after Aaron Nemane, Ossama Ashley, Jamie Jellis and Fabio Tavares. Buyabu began his career at Hornchurch before joining Sheffield United and undertaking loan spells with Motherwell and Rochdale.