Non League & Football League Paper

The Non-League Paper & The Football League Paper

The Non-League Paper and Football League Paper bring you the latest discussion from across the game, covering the biggest stories, insights and debates in Non-League football and the Football League!

  1. 3d ago

    THE FLP PODCAST: Watford’s crisis & Norwich’s losing run + EFL’s financial warning

    In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to discuss all the latest talking points from across the EFL. The trio start with Watford’s alarming slump. Back-to-back heavy defeats against Burnley and Cardiff City have left the Hornets in the Championship relegation zone, with their record in 2026 the worst of any ever-present side in the division. With supporters’ frustration increasingly directed towards the club’s owners, Watford have backed manager Alessandro Dionisi for now – but can he turn things around? Norwich City are also struggling, with a 1-0 home defeat to Southampton making it four losses in a row for Philippe Clement’s side. The Canaries have the joint-worst defensive record in the Championship, but with more favourable fixtures coming up, can they get their season back on track? Elsewhere in the midweek action, nine-man Lincoln City were thrashed 6-0 by West Ham, while QPR impressed with a 4-1 victory over Derby County. Robbie Savage got off the mark in League One as Peterborough United manager last weekend with a 3-1 win away to former club Leicester City. Can he maintain that momentum when Posh face Burton Albion this Saturday? Tom Hounsell has been handed the Wycombe Wanderers job on a permanent basis after a successful interim spell. A 4-1 defeat to Luton Town spoiled his first game fully in charge, but can the 36-year-old guide the Chairboys back to winning ways against Notts County? And finally, the panel examine the findings of the State of the Game Report, which has raised fresh concerns over the financial health of English football. The headline figure revealed that 94 per cent of clubs across the top five tiers recorded a loss in 2025-26. You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscriptions/ Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #football #soccer #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #watford #norwichcity #lincolncity #westham #qpr #peterboroughunited #wycombewanderers

  2. 4d ago

    NON-LEAGUE GOALMOUTH: FA Cup fever! Gateshead’s potential takeover + Forest Green’s big gamble

    #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer   On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth...   Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch are joined by the Non-League Paper’s North-East correspondent, Mark Carruthers, to talk through all the latest in Non-League!   The dream of reaching the first round proper is alive for a host of Non-League clubs, with a place alongside EFL opposition up for grabs.   Step 5 duo SE Dons and Tadley Calleva continue their remarkable cup runs, with the Dons travelling to Sholing and Tadley facing National League side Aldershot Town. Can either keep their fairytale going?   AFC Rushden & Diamonds face a tough test against Morecambe, while Bury, Leatherhead, Atherton Collieries, Brentwood Town and others will be hoping to spring surprises of their own.   The trio also discuss the latest developments at Gateshead, who have agreed a sale in principle to American investment company Flacks Group, subject to regulatory approval. The Heed host Stafford Rangers, who have impressed in the competition, as they look to put their on-field struggles behind them.   Meanwhile, Forest Green Rovers face Chesham United with their existing coaching team remaining in charge following Robbie Savage’s departure for Peterborough United. The panel debate whether FGR can continue without appointing a permanent manager, as the ongoing row between owner Dale Vince and Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony over the circumstances of Savage’s move into the EFL continues in the background.   And finally, could Manchester City really end up in the National League? The team discuss the extraordinary possibility.   You can subscribe to The Non-League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link (www.thenonleaguefootballpaper.com/subscriptions/).   Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news!   X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en   Thumbnail image credit: Nick Gunn/Ian Christy/Alamy   #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth #facup #gateshead #forestgreen #manchestercity

  3. Oct 8

    NON-LEAGUE GOALMOUTH: SE Dons & Tadley Calleva’s FA Cup dream, Pete Wild’s Hartlepool task + Robbie Savage going Posh

    #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer   On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth...   Editors Matt Badcock and Jon Couch are joined by Non-League Show guru Tim Fuell to discuss all the latest in Non-League football.   It’s been a huge week for Step 5 duo SE Dons and Tadley Calleva as they found out who they will be facing in the FA Cup fourth round qualifying.   With clubs just one win away from the first round proper, we cast our eye on the draw and chat over some of the big storylines so far. Who will reach that Holy Grail next week?   The team also catch-up on the managerial change at Hartlepool United as Pete Wild is unveiled as Lee Clark’s successor. Does having plenty of National League experience make a difference?   We also go over Robbie Savage’s move from Forest Green Rovers to Peterborough United after landing their manager’s job and why he won’t be cowed by the doubters.   As a former Strictly Come Dancing celebrity, which other Non-League managers could take to the dancefloor?   And talking of entertainment, Tim takes us through the places to be if you want to see goals this season.   You can subscribe to The Non-League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link (www.thenonleaguefootballpaper.com/subscriptions/).   Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news!   X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en   Thumbnail image credit: Alamy | Rob Mellor   #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth #facup #hartlepoolunited #forestgreen

  4. Oct 8

    THE FLP PODCAST: Tonda Eckert verdict, Robbie Savage & more dugout changes + Championship returns

    #efl #footballleague In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL. The trio discuss the latest news coming out of Southampton as their manager Tonda Eckert learned his fate following the investigation into the ‘Spygate’ scandal, which removed the Saints from the play-off final last season. The Independent FA panel gave him a six-week ban from football, suspended until the end of the 2027/28 campaign. Elsewhere, the Championship returns after the international break with West Ham vs QPR on Friday. Other big games include Middlesbrough taking on Wolves on Saturday, and a mouthwatering south-coast derby between Southampton and Portsmouth on Sunday. The EFL managerial merry-go-round continues, with Graham Alexander taking charge of his first Preston North End game at home to Millwall after leaving Bradford City last week. Alexander returns to Deepdale after spending a decade at the club as a player. In his stead, Michael Duff will take the reins with the Bantams, following his departure from Wycombe Wanderers in September. And finally, Robbie Savage undertakes his first position as an EFL manager, taking over at Peterborough United. Savage’s tenure got off to a winning start, as the Posh beat Ipswich Town’s U21s 4-1 in the Jersey Mike’s Trophy in mid-week, and the former Wales international has promised all-out attacking football as he looks to revive the club following Luke Williams’ short spell. You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscriptions/ Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Listen to this episode on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #football #soccer #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #southampton #tondaeckert #westham #qpr #middlesbrough #wolverhampton #portsmouth #preston #bradford #peterboroughunited

  5. Oct 1

    NON-LEAGUE GOALMOUTH: Robbie Savage on the move? Alex Scott’s England debut + National League review

    #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer   On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth...   The NLP Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch are joined by the Non-League Paper’s North-East correspondent, Mark Carruthers, to talk through all the latest in Non-League!   It’s been another busy week in Non-League football.   The team kick-off by looking at the rise of Alex Scott – from Guernsey FC to an England international. It was a proud moment for the Channel Island and the whole of the Non-League game when the Bournemouth midfielder came off the bench for Thomas Tuchel’s men for his debut in the Nations League clash against Czech Republic in midweek.   Mark Carruthers gives us his thoughts on Hartlepool United’s midweek defeat to Harrogate Town as Pools close in on appointing a new manager.   We also chat about Gateshead’s current predicament with the resignation of a prominent director and their difficult form that sees them at the bottom of the National League table.   It was a busy night for Step 1 on Tuesday – we catch-up on the results.   Have Barrow turned a corner? Carlisle United also took home a much needed victory against AFC Fylde, while Boreham Wood continue their charge at the top of the table. Can anyone stop them?   And the biggest talking point this week has been the future of Robbie Savage. With his departure to Peterborough United still not confirmed, we go over the latest.   You can subscribe to The Non-League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link (www.thenonleaguefootballpaper.com/subscriptions/).   Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news!   X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en   Thumbnail image credit: Alamy   #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #englandfootball #gateshead #hartlepoolunited #carlisleunited #peterboroughunited #barrowafc #afcfylde #afcbournemouth #footballpodcast #englishfootball #alexscott #robbiesavage

  6. Sep 24

    NON-LEAGUE GOALMOUTH: Why the international break is key! Pints on terraces debate + FA Cup draw

    #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth... The NLP Editor at Large Matt Badcock and Executive Editor Jon Couch are joined by Non-League Show legend Tim Fuell to run through the latest issues and talking points from across Non-League. The guys discuss the importance of the international break window for Non-League, as it provides the perfect opportunity to shine a spotlight on the lower leagues. Additionally, we dive in-depth into the pints on terraces debate. Sparked by Prime Minister Andy Burnham after he argued football fans are unfairly ‘singled out’ compared to other sports, the change to the law would see supporters able to enjoy a pint in the stands again if the 40-year plus alcohol ban is lifted. Is this a welcome change, or are there still reasons to keep the ban in place? Elsewhere, the trio give their reactions to the FA Cup third qualifying round draw, with a focus on some of the most intriguing ties for the next stage of the competition, including SE Dons, who are still flying in their debut campaign. Stafford Rangers produced one of the shocks of the second qualifying round by coming from behind to beat National League North leaders Hereford and will face Halesowen Town next. Finally, there is a discussion on the recent surge in crowd funding by Non-League teams to support the implementation of artificial 3G/4G pitches. With such expenses required to install these pitches, the guys debate whether they are worth it for Non-League clubs. You can subscribe to The Non-League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link (www.thenonleaguefootballpaper.com/subscriptions/) OR by scanning the QR code shown throughout the video! Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en Listen to the Non-League Goalmouth via Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail image credit: Garry Griffiths & Alamy #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth #facup

  7. Sep 24

    THE FLP PODCAST: Who can revive Peterborough? West Ham’s derby comeback + Wolves’ Fer Lopez thriving

    In this week’s edition of The Football League Paper Podcast... Matt Badcock is joined by Football League Paper Chief Writer Chris Dunlavy and John Lyons, Football League Paper Editor, to talk through all the latest in the EFL. The trio discuss the latest news coming out of the Weston Homes Stadium as Peterborough United have parted company with manager Luke Williams, following their 2-0 defeat to Doncaster Rovers last weekend. Williams’ tenure lasted just under a year, with a record of 17 wins from 47 games, with just two of those victories coming in their last 22 outings. Karl Robinson, who has most recently been in charge of Salford City, is heavily linked with taking the reins at The Posh. Over at Deepdale, Preston North End’s search for a new manager has reportedly been shortlisted to just three names: Robbie Keane, Tom Cleverley and Leighton Baines. Keane’s was most recently managing Hungarian side Ferencváros, while Cleverley is currently under contract at Plymouth Argyle. Baines, meanwhile, is David Moyes’ assistant manager at Everton, and could make his first permanent managerial appointment with Preston. Last weekend saw the return of two heated local derbies as Millwall hosted West Ham for the first fixture between the two sides in 22 years. The Irons were forced to fight back from two goals down to clinch a late point in a 2-2 draw at The Den. Elsewhere, Wolves picked up all three points in the Black Country derby against West Brom. The two sides were only separated by Fer Lopez’s early second-half goal, capitalising on a mistake from Nat Phillips to earn his side a first home derby victory over West Brom in 15 years. Stoke City’s excellent run of form continued with a 2-1 win at home to Sheffield United. The Potters moved up to 7th in the table with a fourth consecutive victory from their last five league games. In League One, Bradford City maintained their top spot with a third straight win in a 1-0 away win at Luton Town. Interestingly, the Bantams have only scored seven goals from as many league games this season, but have won more than any other team in the division with five victories. Finally, in League Two, Salford City are hitting their stride after a disappointing start, with Peter Cklamovski’s side winning three of their last four league outings. You can subscribe to The Football League Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link: https://www.theleaguepaper.com/subscriptions/ Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest EFL news! X: https://x.com/TheLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefootballleaguepaper  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleagu... Listen to this episode on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail images credit: Alamy #football #soccer #efl #championship #leagueone #leaguetwo #preston #westham #peterboroughunited #millwall #wolverhamptonwanderers #westbrom #stokecity #bradfordcity #salfordcity

  8. Sep 17

    NON-LEAGUE GOALMOUTH: Fylde & Kidderminster flying, Boreham Wood’s title charge + FA Cup preview

    #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer On this week’s edition of the Non-League Goalmouth... Executive Editor Jon Couch is joined by NLP Midlands correspondent Andy Mitchell and Matthew Nash. The trio discussed the midweek National League action and how well the newcomers have started this campaign. AFC Fylde and Kidderminster Harriers continued their flying starts to the season as the Coasters saw off Harrogate Town whilst Kiddy defeated Gateshead. How far can they both go this season? Worthing also picked up a win over league debutants Hornchurch – both sides currently operating near the top half of the table. Boreham Wood’s unbeaten start to the season continued with a late win over Scunthorpe United. Can anyone stop their charge towards the title? Solihull Moors picked up a much-needed first win of the season over Barrow as Andy discusses their situation and tough start. Finally, the guys turn to the weekend’s FA Cup second round qualifying action. Walton & Hersham are looking to put a bad start to life at Step 2 aside when they take on Horsham. SE Dons face Chichester City as they continue to progress in their debut campaign. And it will be a busy day in Redcar on Saturday as Town take on Darlington to be shown live on BBC, and Athletic are in action against Macclesfield. Plus, the panel send their support and best wishes to former Redditch United boss Mike Fowler following his brain tumour diagnosis. Make sure to follow us across social media to keep up-to-date with the latest non-league news! X: https://x.com/NonLeaguePaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonleaguepaper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenonleaguepaper/?hl=en Listen to the Non-League Goalmouth via Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033lvDVahld3xatq7UGRYm Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/non-league-football-league-paper/id1896797609 Thumbnail image credit: Alamy | Steve McLellan & Aidan Wilson: AFC Fylde #nonleague #nonleaguefootball #soccer #football #nationalleague #nationalleaguenorth #nationalleaguesouth #facup #afcfylde #kidderminster #borehamwood

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The Non-League Paper and Football League Paper bring you the latest discussion from across the game, covering the biggest stories, insights and debates in Non-League football and the Football League!

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