English football club in League One
Chelsea forward Joao Pedro remains a top value in fantasy leagues amid Chelsea’s strong fixture run, with managers weighing whether to bench, captain, or buy in light of recent form. Opinions diverge on Haaland, Saka, and Palmer as captaincy options.
Woking FC has parted ways with manager Jermain Defoe by mutual consent, ending a four-month spell after the club’s season preparations. Directors say concerns across staff and players prompted the decision, with no direct concerns raised by Defoe.
A wave of new football kit designs is hitting top Scottish and European clubs as the 2026-27 season approaches. BBC Business collects notable releases from AC Milan to Celtic and Wales, with reactions ranging from praise for heritage-inspired designs to criticism of bold, modern looks.
Bruno Fernandes and co. see off Leeds United in a shootout after a 1-1 draw in the first Gaelic Games stadium game since 2009. The match ends amid fan invasions and a late crossbar hit as Mazraoui secures the win in the shootout.
The Carabao Cup second round has been drawn, with Chelsea and Tottenham entering the competition alongside other Premier League clubs not in Europe. The draw is sectional (north and south) and ties will be played the week of 24 August. The nine top-flight teams in Europe this season join in the third round.
Two developments in football's landscape are reshaping the sport: a high-stakes Championship season following Spygate revelations and Newport County's season-opening push under Hayden Mullins, as they look to stabilise after a managerial shake-up.
Larne is eliminated after conceding a late penalty in extra-time to Invermen following a 2-0 lead, with Montel Gibson sent off and controversy around a handball in the dying stages.
Portsmouth beat Cardiff 2-0 in a Championship game, with Krystian Bielik involved in a physical incident with a spectator while retrieving a ball. Cardiff’s coach says Bielik was slapped; another ball incident led to ejections. Authorities and clubs are reviewing the events.
Swansea City has climbed to second in the Championship after a 3-1 win over Burnley, with Idah, Yeo, and Vipotnik scoring. Manager Matos says the squad can compete with any team, signaling growing optimism for a promotion push. Inoussa seeks regular football on loan to gain playing time, while Franco’s return strengthens midfield options as Swansea prepares for a crucial clash.
A Dispatches investigation has prompted Sir Max Hill KC to say material gathered could justify a criminal inquiry into Tommy Robinson (Stephen Yaxley-Lennon) and fundraising practices. Robinson disputes the allegations, saying donor money has supported legitimate campaigns and that no funds were misused. The programme also questions payments to his ex-wife’s accounts and potential perjury.
West Ham United are reshaping leadership as Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky becomes chairman with a 46% stake, while long-time owner Sullivan steps back to 40% after a high-profile reshuffle that keeps him in the frame.
Coventry City has secured a first Premier League win since 2001, lifting spirits after a nightmare start that left them with four straight defeats and no goals. Lampard’s side capitalised on a late VAR call to beat Nottingham Forest, signaling a potential shift as the break approaches, though the wider reality of the season remains brutal for newly promoted clubs.
Southampton has had a six-week ban from football, suspended until the end of next season, lifted after the FA imposed a £28,000 fine and reprimand following three misconduct charges related to spying on other teams. The club can continue in its role, while sanctions include a four-point deduction for next season across the Championship.
Everton Football Club is moving into a new phase as its controlling owner, The Friedkin Group, explores investment options, including a potential sale. The club has moved to a new stadium and vows to build on momentum while carefully considering next steps.