Accrington ST Aims for Better League Position in 2026-27. Accrington ST manager John Doolan is optimistic about the team's chances in the 2026-27 season, despite finishing 16th in the final 2025 table with 53 points from 46 games, recent form LDDLL. The team has strengthened its forward line with the arrival of Cole Stockton, who has returned to the form that made him a wanted man during his days at Morecambe.
What are the expectations heading into the season?
Accrington ST manager John Doolan expects the team to achieve more points and a higher league position than they did last season. They made a three-point improvement year-on-year last season and flirted with the play-off places in early 2026 before injuries and squad depth took their toll.
What are the major strengths of the team to help them achieve that?
The team has strengthened its forward line with the arrival of Cole Stockton, which has to help. Stanley will be hoping that he can return to the form that made him a wanted man during his days at Morecambe. They have also brought players in from non-league football who will be hungry to show that they belong in the EFL.
What are the underlying weaknesses that could hold them back?
Injuries and perhaps in some areas a little bit of inexperience could hamper them. There are key players in the Stanley team that Doolan needs to get 35-plus games from this season - Shaun Whalley being a case in point. He missed the start of last season and was missed badly.
Who's a player to look out for this season who could be a difference-maker?
Shaun Whalley is a vastly experienced, talented player who his team-mates respect greatly. If he can stay fit for most of the season, they'll be fine. The team is currently 34 points behind leaders Bromley and has a next fixture against Walsall at home on 2027-02-06, where they are 13th in the table. Accrington ST has scored 47 goals and conceded 58 this season, resulting in a -11 goal difference.
