Thomas expects World Cup to impact club's summer business

The 2026 FIFA World Cup started on Thursday and is taking place across the Atlantic in Canada, America and Mexico. Although Cobblers are unlikely to be interested in signing any players directly involved in the tournament, Premier League and Championship clubs will have their pre-season preparations disrupted, which in turn will impact the loan market.

Nonetheless, Thomas is pleased with how the summer has started, and he’s been particularly impressed by the clarity of new Town boss Chris Hogg.

"Things are going well,” said Thomas. “I spoke to James (Whiting) yesterday (Thursday) and we've obviously signed a couple of players. Chris certainly has a clear idea of what he wants and our targets are there and we’ll continue to make progress I’m sure.

"I’ve spent some time with Chris and he’s very focused and very detailed orientated. He knows what he wants and he identifies what he wants and how that will help the group. The early signs are very good.

"It does tend to have an impact when there’s a major tournament going on. Loan deals in particular will be later this summer because of the World Cup, and I think the fact it’s in the US, Mexico and Canada will delay matters even more, especially with the Premier League starting later.

"The timings might be a bit different to a normal summer but looking at the plans and the targets, I think we’re in good shape.”

Cobblers have signed two players so far – forward Harvey Saunders and goalkeeper Zach Jeacock.

"I think Harvey will add a lot all across the front-line and he’ll bring an energy and an enthusiasm to the group,” Thomas added. “I know Jez (George, sporting director) at Lincoln and they speak very highly of the goalkeeper so I think both players will be good additions to the squad.”