Manager Jimmy Dean has stayed loyal to the players who earned Spalding United a place in National League North.
The Tulips’ retained list revealed 11 of last season’s first-team squad have been kept on, with an option triggered to keep striker Bart Cybulski on board too.
Even the new signings have a familiar look to them, with last season’s loan players Tom Pugh and Ashton Fox making a permanent move to the Sir Halley Stewart Field.
Joining former Peterborough Sports midfielder Dan Jarvis in Dean’s squad, is his ex-Turbines teammate, goalkeeper Peter Crook, who will be vying with Dan Wilks for the no.1 slot.
The experienced Crook, 32, who has played for Harrogate Town, Hyde United and Boston United said: “I have over 300 appearances in the league, I think it’s massively important to have that experience; knowing when to play and when to go a little bit long and not take risks.
“Shot stopping is very important, I’d say that’s my go-to, shot stopping coming for crosses, I’d say that’s my bread and butter.”
“However, having a 3G pitch, it’s important that we’re able to play out from the back a bit.”
Pugh, 25, joins as a free agent following the expiration of his contract at Step One side Halifax Town.
The midfielder came through the Scunthorpe United academy and also played for Hereford, Spennymoor Town and Scarborough Athletic.
Defender Fox, 23, began his career in the Peterborough United academy and played for their u23 side before joining Peterborough Sports.
Tulips fans will be just as excited at who Dean has persuaded to stay, with top scorer Jack Roberts leading the charge to remain with the club.
Spalding United 2026/27 – Retained: Saleem Akanbi, Alfie Bendle, Bart Cybulski Ben Fowkes, Connor Johnson, Liam Moore, Tosin Olopade, Jack Roberts, Maniche Sani, Dion Sembie-Ferris, Lewis White, Dan Wilks. New signings: Peter Crook, Ashton Fox, Tom Pugh.
* Holbeach United have retained the services of several of last season’s squad for the new Eastern Counties League campaign.
Among those staying at Carters Park are: Zeren Akyüz, Denis Coelho, Flynn Hyde, Pat Kacirek, Jordan Oldham, Dan Roberts and Callum Wright.
* Pinchbeck United have entered a development team in the Boston & District League.
