Town’s struggle for goals was their major undoing last summer and the squad continues to look light in forward areas. Although nineteen players are currently either under contract or on loan for next season, Chris Hogg and his recruitment team know more is needed. Here’s a position-by-position guide as to where Cobblers most need to strengthen…
1. Goalkeeper
Under contract / On loan: Ross Fitzsimons, Zach Jeacock. Priority rating: 1/10 - Following Jeacock's arrival from Lincoln, the goalkeeping position now looks sorted for the new season, barring any unexpected developments Photo: Alex Pantling
2. Right-back
Under contract: Joe Wormleighton, Jack Burroughs, Janoi Donacien. Priority rating - 1/10. Assuming Donacien has been brought to play right-back, Town's don't need to strengthen in this position Photo: Pete Norton
3. Right-footed centre-back
Under contract: Elliott Moore, Conor McCarthy, Max Dyche, Janoi Donacien. Priority rating: 2/10. Again, not somewhere that needs drastic reinforcements, especially given Donacien's ability to play across the back-line Photo: Pete Norton
4. Left-footed centre-back
Under contract: Jon Guthrie. Priority rating: 6/10 - If Hogg values balance in his centre-back pairing, he'll likely seek a left-footer, although Moore, McCarthy and Dyche are all comfortable playing there if needed Photo: Pete Norton