Five Players Who Are Likely To Be The Big Names For Lincoln City This Season

Erik Ring

Stacey West Patreon sponsored Erik’s name is one at Lincoln City that jumps off the page, as he has all the attributes to be a big hit in League One, as well as potentially higher up. A former Sweden U21 international, Ring’s arrival brought about a sea of excitement amongst Imps faithful upon joining last summer from giants AIK, his impact was not fully realised for much of his first year here.

Not quite a wingback as was initially used in a 3-5-2, Ring found a new home as a wide forward in the 4-2-3-1, which brought about improved performances for him as well as the team. Suited to either the right or left of the three behind the striker, the Swede brings a wealth of experience to Lincoln at only 23, where he has already played 129 senior club games, including in the UEFA Europa Conference League whilst at AIK.

Perhaps one of the quickest players at the club, Ring most notably used his pace and power last season in the penultimate game of the season at Edgeley Park, where he steamed past the Stockport defence to fire the ball in at the near post past Corey Addai. Three goals and two assists in only 24 matches and 9 starts in 24/25 are hardly numbers to be scoffed at from a player who was new to the country and adapting to the league for the first time. We all remember the impact of what a quick winger can do at this level in the likes of Brennan Johnson, and if Ring can get near the standard the now European champion showed in LN5, it will be very promising indeed.

Now that Ring has had his ‘learning season’, it looks as if it is the perfect time for him to kick on and assert himself as one of Lincoln’s and hopefully the division’s standout players. If he does this, it will prove to be another brilliant signing for the club under Jez George, as attacking players can see their value skyrocket very quickly.

Verdict: It may be too early to suggest that this is a make-or-break season for Erik, but it feels like he needs to perform this year if City are to recoup any of the value that they splashed on his services. As the Stacey West-sponsored player for 25/26, it would certainly do no harm if he were to become the player that most Imps, as well as I, know he is capable of.