Chelmsford’s ambition is clear, and after consecutive playoff failures, their owner, Spencer Gore, has injected more money into the club, backing manager Angelo Harrop to get them over the line and finally secure promotion. Their aim is to address past shortcomings and strengthen the squad to make a serious push for the title in the upcoming season.
Although the departures of Charlie Ruff (Hornchurch) and Kane Crichlow (Sutton United) might seem like significant blows to the midfield, the replacements that have come in are impressive. Taylor Clark (20) arrives on a free from Wycombe, bringing with him invaluable experience from loan spells at Farnborough and Slough in the National League South. His ability to break into the senior team at Wycombe and then impress on loan means he will slot in seamlessly. Dominic Odusanya (from Eastbourne Borough) brings goals and energy to the midfield, while Tom Lapslie (29) is a no-nonsense, tough-tackling midfielder whose potential has been rediscovered after a year-long injury absence. Lapslie’s leadership and defensive qualities are exactly what Chelmsford need for a promotion-chasing squad.
One of the key players to watch is Archie Tamplin, last season’s young player of the season. Despite interest from higher leagues, Chelmsford have managed to keep hold of the 22-year-old, who is widely regarded as one of the most talented midfielders in the division. He will be crucial for Chelmsford as they aim to mount a title challenge. Another smart acquisition is Josh Hedges, who had a standout season at Salisbury with 18 goal contributions. Many expected Hedges to move to the National League or even higher, so his signing represents a significant coup for Chelmsford, adding both creativity and attacking output.
In defence, Harrop has brought in Kian Ronan from Kings Lynn, strengthening the right flank. Harry Barbrook rejoins from Ipswich after a successful loan spell last season, while Joe Grimwood comes in for a club-record fee from Barnet. Grimwood is a powerful centre-back who has experience of winning promotions, including with Harrop at Braintree. His leadership and defensive qualities will be key for Chelmsford this season. The addition of David Longe-King from relegated St. Albans further solidifies the backline, and Josh Castigilone, also from St. Albans, brings additional cover and versatility.
Chelmsford’s attack looks a lot stronger too. Jack Barham is the big signing up top, having rejected a new contract at Aldershot to drop a level and join the Clarets. Barham has been a consistent goal scorer, with four consecutive double-digit goal seasons, including 18 goals in 27 games during Maidstone’s promotion campaign. His experience and finishing ability will be invaluable for Chelmsford as they look to push for promotion. In addition, Ricky Holmes, a former fan favourite, returns to Essex in a player/coach role, adding further experience and wisdom to the squad, even if his playing time will likely be limited.
Shiloh Remy, whose time at Dagenham & Redbridge was disappointing, has the potential to shine at this level if he can recapture his best form. At 24, Remy has the pace and ability to unsettle defenders, making him a dangerous weapon off the bench or in rotation.
All things considered, Chelmsford’s squad is shaping up to be one of the most complete in the league. They have a balanced team with creativity, experience, and quality in all areas. If they can find the right striker to complement Barham, they will have one of the best attacking units in the league. The squad looks solid defensively, and the midfield is packed with quality, especially with Tamplin, Hedges, and Lapslie pulling the strings.
For me, Chelmsford are the favourites for the title. Their squad has the perfect mix of youth, experience, and quality in key areas. If they can stay healthy and build momentum throughout the season, they have all the tools to secure promotion this year and potentially challenge for the top spot in the league. It’s their time, and they look poised to finally push for that elusive promotion.
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