Lincoln City have moved quickly in planning for League One, tying up three new deals for players in one frantic day of announcements at Sincil Bank.

The biggest shock of all was a one-year deal for former Premier League defender Jason Shackell. He’s been filling in as captain for Danny Cowley’s side in the absence of Lee Frecklington, but at 35-years-old few thought he’d commit to another season.

He’s been tremendous at the back for the club and will be a huge asset for them in League One.

Hot on the heels of that announcement came the news that keeper Josh Vickers had also penned a one-year deal. Vickers started the season as the club’s number one, but two spells out with injury saw him finish the season as understudy to former Scotland international Matt Gilks.

Finally, the supporters got their wish as popular centre forward Matt Rhead also signed another year of his life away. The 34-year-old is approaching 200 outings for the Imps and is something of a cult figure, having been with the club long before their remarkable revolution.

The early decisions have doubtless been prompted by the club’s recent title win, with League One football assured the budgeting and planning can begin in earnest. All three players have had a role to fill this season and all three offer something going forward.

Vickers is the seemingly big gamble; his fitness has been a worry ever since he joined the club. A big, agile keeper he’s still only 23-years-old and if he can shake whatever is plaguing him, he could well have a future much higher up.

Jason Shackell won’t, he’s entering the twilight years of his career, but on and off the field his experience has been vital and he’ll be a key figure next season, even if game time alludes him as Cian Bolger emerges as the natural partner for Michael Bostwick.

It’s Rhead’s signing that retains an element of sentiment, although it won’t have been made for those reasons. When a club climbs to new heights, as the Imps have done recently, their heroes of the past can easily be forgotten.

Rhead’s an uncomplicated footballer, a big man with an exquisite touch and a unique set of attributes. He won’t start 75% of their matches next season, but there’s not a League One defender around who won’t have some trepidation at facing his uncompromising form.

It bodes well for Imps’ fans that the club are already building next year’s squad.