Cobblers squad assessed: A player-by-player guide to Keith Curle's new-look squad
By James Heneghan
Published 29th Jul 2019, 18:00 BST
Twelve new players have walked through the PTS gates this summer while nine have gone the other way, but just how are the Cobblers shaping up ahead of their 2019/20 Sky Bet League Two campaign?
Here, we assess the options at Keith Curle's disposal heading into Saturday's opening game of the season against Walsall...
Keith Curle has assembled virtually a whole new squad this season. Picture: Pete Norton
Number one throughout the entirety of last season, Cornell faces a tougher battle to retain the shirt this campaign. Was steady for the most part last year but Arnold is lurking and could well start against Walsall.
His arrival this summer means the Cobblers now have stronger competition and better depth in the goalkeeping department. Both are solid and reliable 'keepers, though Arnold hasn't dropped down a division to sit on the bench.
Not one of the headline signings but he's gone about his work with quiet efficiency in pre-season. Capable of playing at full-back or wing-back and his athleticism will offer an extra dimension down the right flank this season.
Brought in to provide balance and attacking impetus to Town's left side, something that was missing last season. Has a dangerous cross on him - as seen at times in pre-season - and can play in a variety of positions if needed.
Looks likely to start the season alongside Goode and should he recapture his form of last term - when he was one of Town's standout performers - he'll quickly became a regular and important cog in the side once again.
Made captain and already looks to be relishing the role judging by his impressive pre-season. Reads the game well and is up for the physical battle. Much will depend on his fitness and form at the heart of Town's defence.
Played 31 times for two promotion-winning teams last season so hasn't come to warm the bench. Comfortable with the ball at his feet, which may well be important this season, and provides much-needed competition at centre-back.
Will be hoping to build on the 14 appearances made during his breakthrough year last season. His maturity, determination and versatility, not to mention talent, makes him a good back-up option should injury strike elsewhere.
Looked set to be an outcast having been transfer-listed in May but he's featured heavily in pre-season and seems up for the fight. A natural wing-back so can slot into 3-5-2 and has also done well at centre-back in friendlies.
Injury and inconsistency has hampered his progress, and he seemed to fall on the wrong side of Curle towards the end of last season. But he's looked hungry, sharp and determined to prove a point in pre-season.
