Bucks Bustling For Promotion - Buxton 2025-2026 Season Preview

Buxton Aiming Higher After Play-Off Finish

After a play-off finish last time around, John McGrath and Buxton will look for further progress this season.

League-Wide Changes Open the Door

With a few of the “bigger” teams undergoing major transformations with their playing squads and management, there’s a real opportunity for Buxton’s youthful side to take advantage. As the youngest squad in the league, all eyes will be on how they develop over the season.

Smart Use of the Loan Market

Buxton played the loan market very well last season, with notable contributions from True Grant (Man City), Bobby Faulkner (Doncaster), Ethan Mann (Stockport), and Cian Coleman (Leeds). Each played significant roles during the second half of the campaign.

Defensive Additions Fill Key Gaps

There may be some big gaps to fill, but Buxton have already moved smartly. George Ward (23), Leamington’s Supporters' Player of the Season, joins the defence, along with Max Bardwell (22), who impressed on loan at Fylde last season.

Coleman Signs Permanently After Breakout Season

Cian Coleman (20) has joined permanently from Leeds after a productive loan spell, where he netted 7 goals in 23 starts from midfield — a big boost for the squad.

New Goalkeeper Incoming

A new goalkeeper will likely arrive before the start of the season, replacing the outgoing True Grant.

Raiding Hereford for Quality

Buxton have also added two key players from 10th-placed Hereford:

• Sammy Robinson (23) – Right-back and Hereford’s Player of the Year.

• Tate Campbell (22) – A dynamic midfield addition.

Further Strength in Defence and Attack

• Deniche Hill (21) signs after impressing in pre-season following his release from Leicester.

• Callum Ebanks (22) will be looking to step up after scoring 36 goals over two seasons for Stratford Town.

A Talented Core Already in Place

This new talent joins a promising existing squad featuring:

• Kieran Burton (21)

• Johnny Johnston (21)

• Luke Brennan (23)

This continuity, mixed with new signings, gives Buxton a strong foundation for improvement.

Experienced Midfield Leaders

Connor Kirby (26) is a crucial figure in midfield, supported by Keziah Martin (25) and new addition Ryan McLean (25). While still relatively young, these players bring leadership and composure to an energetic side.

Loan Market Still in Play

Expect McGrath to dip into the loan market again. Buxton’s location and reputation for developing young players — combined with a style of attractive football — make them an ideal destination for emerging talent.

The Manager Makes the Difference

With John McGrath at the helm — arguably the best manager in the league — Buxton are in excellent hands. His track record in youth development and recruitment continues to set the standard.

A Serious Promotion Contender

Buxton finished 7th last season with 77 points, but the momentum they carried into the end of the 2024/25 campaign, coupled with smart summer recruitment, suggests they could be the team to beat this year.

By Scott Redfearn

Prediction: 1st

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