After missing out in the play-offs on three separate occasions (2017, 2018 and 2020), Exeter City finally made it League One after finishing second behind Forest Green Rovers in the 2021-22 campaign.
Manager Matt Taylor has made just two additions to his squad, but - at the same time - Taylor has managed to retain the majority of his side who finished as runners-up in League Two.
Goalkeeper Jamal Blackman has agreed a one-year deal following his release by Huddersfield Town and Kegs Chauke has joined on a season-long loan from Southampton.
Academy graduates such as skipper Matt Jay, midfielders Josh Key and Archie Collins and defenders Harry Kite and Alex Hartridge form the backbone of the Grecians' squad, along with players acquired from elsewhere such as Sam Nombe, Tim Dieng and Sam Stubbs.
As a supported owned, City often have to do things differently from other clubs, but their previous spell in the third tier lasted three seasons (2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12). If they manage to survive in their first campaign back at this level, it could give them the foundation to remain there for a few more years.
One thing the Grecians can definitely look forward to in 2022-23 is high gate receipts, with former Premier League sides Derby County, Ipswich Town, Sheffield Wednesday, Charlton Athletic and Portsmouth all due to visit St James Park. Then there is the small matter of a Devon Derby with Plymouth Argyle too.
Player to Watch: Tim Dieng
With the experience of playing in League One with Bradford City, Oldham Athletic, Scunthorpe United and Southend United, Tim Dieng could use those experiences to help guide some of his younger teammates. After scoring 14 goals in 47 appearances in all competitions in 2021-22, which helped to earn him a place in the League Two team of the seaason, he will be keen to make a big impression at a higher level.
In: Jamal Blackman (Huddersfield Town), Kegs Chauke (Southampton, loan)
Out: George Ray (Barrow), Nigel Atangana (Eastleigh),
