Lincoln's current squad is littered with players from a higher level, something that has helped the National League winners adjust to life in the Football League.

Michael Bostwick was Player of the Season for League One Peterborough last season, Lee Frecklington was captain of Championship side Rotherham and James Wilson has played of his career in those two divisions.

At right-back, Neal Eardley has Premier League experience with Blackpool, as well as international caps for Wales. Sadly for Eardley, after three injury-ravaged seasons he found himself struggling for a new club.

A trial at Port Vale ended without a deal in the summer before he rocked up at Danny Cowley's door.

After a successful trial he signed a short-term deal looking to prove his fitness. He hasn't looked back.

Speaking to assembled press yesterday, Eardley confirmed a new deal is very much on the agenda: "I’m really enjoying my football here and if that was to be prolonged, I would be delighted,” said Eardley. “There’s been conversations between myself and the manager and they seem to be going quite well at the minute."

Eardley has been in sensational form this season, playing at both right back and left back when needed.

He scored a great goal against Cheltenham last week to earn the Imps a 1-0 win and is widely regarded as the signing of the season at Sincil Bank. He's just delighted to be playing regular football and staying injury free.

“This is the most games I’ve strung together since I was 19 or 20, I’m 29 now, so that’s a long time. That’s thanks to the whole backroom staff and we’ve got a great sports science team. Everything is taken into consideration and they always make the right decisions. I think I’d be speaking on behalf of the whole group by saying that.”

The Verdict

Neal Eardley has been a revelation in red and white this season, looking every inch a player at the very top of his game.

He's calm and assured with a high level of commitment and a fearsome tackle.

Some players fade after a succession of serious injuries, but Eardley appears to have thrived in the face of adversity.

If Lincoln were to secure his services for another season it would be a huge coup for the ambitious club.