Club-by-club guide to League One
AFC Wimbledon
May need to summon “Crazy Gang” attitude to survive following loss of Deji Oshilaja and Toby Sibbick.
Verdict Relegation candidates
Accrington Stanley
Stanley, who thrive as underdogs, have reason for hope after retaining Sean Mcconville and Jordan Clark.
Verdict Bottom half
Blackpool
Free of the Oystons, they can now focus on on-field matters and eight new signings signal a brighter future.
Verdict Play-off contenders
Bolton Wanderers
Crisis club must overcome a 12-point deduction and mould a capable squad as a takeover appears imminent.
Verdict Relegation candidates
Bristol Rovers
Will look to put pressure on play-off contenders, energised by the addition of Victor Adeboyejo and Tyler Smith.
Verdict Mid-table
Burton Albion
Mediocrity awaits unless the loss of Marcus Harness and Jamie Allen can be countered with new signings.
Verdict Mid-table
Bury
Beset by financial issues, a 12-point deduction, a managerial departure and player sales, the drop looks inevitable.
Verdict Relegation candidates
Coventry City
With home games in Birmingham, they will hope an exciting crop of overseas imports like Wesley Jobello inspire.
Verdict Play-off contenders
Doncaster Rovers
Darren Moore is at the helm but Donny have not replaced last year’s influential loanees Herbie Kane and Mallik Wilks.
Verdict Mid-table
Fleetwood Town
Joey Barton’s side look a smart dark-horse bet and Harry Souttar should play a key role.
Verdict Play-off contenders
Gillingham
Steve Evans courts controversy but 11 signings suggests the Gills can look up the league rather than down.
Verdict Mid-table
Ipswich Town
In the third tier for the first time since 1957 but signing Tranmere’s James Norwood for free was smart business.
Verdict Promotion challengers
Lincoln City
The Cowley brothers have driven the Imps upwards but may have to wait to achieve a third promotion.
Verdict Play-off contenders
Milton Keynes Dons
After securing promotion, Paul Tisdale’s side will prioritise consolidation this season. Verdict Bottom half
Oxford United
Selling Curtis Nelson and Gavin Whyte was a blow for Oxford, who urgently require firepower up front.
Verdict Bottom half
Peterborough United
Have invested in marquee signings like Mo Eisa to complement their existing abundance of attacking talent.
Verdict Promotion challengers
Portsmouth
Despite Matt Clarke’s exit, Pompey are strengthened by the arrivals of Marcus Harness and Ross Mccrorie.
Verdict Champions
Rochdale
To surpass expectations, the Dale will need Ian Henderson to extend his enviable scoring record at this level.
Verdict Relegation candidates
Rotherham United
A top-two challenge is within their reach under Paul Warne, despite the loss of Will Vaulks and Semi Ajayi.
Verdict Promotion challengers
Shrewsbury Town
A year after an improbable run to the play-off final, the Shrews have a team that can upset the odds again.
Verdict Play-off contenders
Southend United
Survived by the skin of their teeth on the final day last season and face another tough challenge this term.
Verdict Relegation candidates
Sunderland
Failed to live up to last season’s tag of favourites but their defence is stronger after recruiting Jordan Willis.
Verdict Promotion challengers
Tranmere Rovers
Successive promotions have enthused fans but the loss of goalscorer James Norwood points to an uphill task.
Verdict Bottom half
Wycombe Wanderers
On a tight budget, will be tough to break down, but talk of incoming investment has fuelled optimism.
Verdict Relegation candidates