Image source, MK Dons FC/Getty Images/Rex Features

Image caption,

(left to right) MK Dons striker Aaron Collins, Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth, Darrell Clarke of Bristol Rovers and Swindon boss Ian Holloway

A relentless grind it may be for those involved, but the promotion race in League Two last season matched any in England for sheer entertainment and unpredictability.

The line-up for 2025-26 promises more of the same, with the exception of a looming powerhouse at Stadium MK, as the four promotion places available always provide enough of a carrot for the majority of the league.

With Saturday's big kick-off on the horizon, BBC Sport spoke to correspondents across England and Wales for their takes on the clubs they cover and what to expect leading into the new campaign.

Dan Jewell, BBC Radio Lancashire

Manager: John Doolan

Last season: 21st

Key ins: Freddie Sass (King's Lynn, free), Isaac Sinclair (Curzon Ashton, free), Ollie Wright (Southampton, loan)

Key outs: None

What are the expectations...