Although it is still early days, Lincoln City look the team to beat in League Two this season, as the Imps have earned their way to top of the table. 

Last season, Danny Cowley's men made it so far, but were let down in the play-off semi-finals in a 3-1 aggregate loss to Exeter City.

Cowley had the time over the summer to think deeply about what his side could do differently to bridge the gap between play-offs and automatic promotion and so far it is paying dividends.

Despite a Tuesday night loss to Tranmere, Lincoln sit top of the table after 11 matches, with six points worth of breathing space between themselves and the play-offs.

The Imps recruited many players in the summer, albeit not really digging too deep into their wallet, more a case of signing young loanees or experienced players on free transfers.

At Sincil Bank, the feeling really is that the Imps can win their third piece of silverware in as many years following their promotion and EFL Trophy success last season.

Lincoln City announced the signing of ex-Barnet man John Akinde in the summer to the delight of their fans. Akinde netted 87 goals in 166 league appearances during a four-year spell with the Bees, so the acquisition of the striker signified a shrewd piece of business for Lincoln.

Despite this, he has had a tough start to life at Lincoln, scoring only one goal from open play in the league. Should Lincoln be serious about sustaining a promotion bid, Akinde will have to chip in with more goals than he has done.

The mark of all good promotion candidates is that their home form is solid. Most teams in the past make their home a fortress and build on this with the odd win away from home that puts them right up there.

So far this season, Lincoln have dropped just three points at Sincil Bank, and maintaining this form will be vital if they are to be promoted.

Signing all these loanees seemed wonderful at the time, but there is the trap that the players could do too good, and be recalled in January. On the other hand, they may be recalled for a lack of game time.

Either of these situations would leave Cowley's men thin in terms of numbers, so they must try their best to avoid this.