Across more than a century, the Imps have welcomed players who arrived with different expectations and left with lasting reputations. Some broke scoring records while others became symbols of an unforgettable era.
Their stories show how the right signing can change the direction of a club and leave supporters with memories that last for generations. Whether you follow the club closely or simply enjoy reading about football history, there is plenty to discover. For those exploring wider football culture, including topics such as football betting, the careers of these players offer a fascinating look at how success is often built through smart recruitment.
Andy Graver, Newcastle United
Lincoln City made one of the best signings in their history when Andy Graver arrived from Newcastle United in 1950. He wasted little time showing what he could do, becoming a reliable source of goals during one of the club’s strongest periods. Graver helped the Imps win the Third Division North title in 1951 and remained a key figure for several years. By the time he left, he had scored 150 goals in all competitions, a club record that still stands and speaks for the impact he made.
Gareth Ainsworth, Preston North End
Gareth Ainsworth joined Lincoln City from Preston North End in 1995 looking for regular football, and it proved to be the right move for both player and club. His pace and willingness to take defenders on made him a constant threat, while his eye for goal set him apart from many wide players of the time. Ainsworth scored 37 league goals before moving to Port Vale for what was then a record fee received by Lincoln, leaving behind a reputation as one of the club’s standout modern signings.
Grant Brown, Leicester City
After arriving from Leicester City in 1989, Grant Brown became one of the most familiar faces at Sincil Bank. He could play in several positions and rarely let the team down, which made him a valuable player across more than a decade. Brown went on to make 491 appearances, more than anyone else has managed for Lincoln City. Supporters respected his commitment as much as his ability, and his long service helped him earn a place among the club’s most important players.
Phil Stant, Bury
Phil Stant signed from Bury in 1997 and quickly showed why Lincoln City had brought him to the club. Goals arrived at important moments throughout the campaign, helping the Imps secure promotion from Division Three at the end of the 1997–98 season. Stant was a natural finisher who always looked confident inside the penalty area, and supporters soon took to him because of his work rate as well as his scoring record. His contribution remains one of the defining stories of that successful side.
Sean Raggett, Dover Athletic
Few expected Sean Raggett to have such a big influence after he joined Lincoln City from Dover Athletic in 2016. Having impressed in non-league football, he adapted quickly and became a key part of the defence during an unforgettable season. Raggett helped the club win the National League before scoring the winner against Burnley in the FA Cup, sending Lincoln into the quarter-finals. That run brought national attention to the club, and Raggett’s performances played a huge part in making it happen.
John Akinde, Barnet
John Akinde arrived from Barnet in 2018 carrying the weight of a club record transfer fee, but he soon showed why Lincoln City were prepared to invest in him. His goals helped drive the team towards the League Two title, while his physical presence caused problems for defenders throughout the season. Akinde finished as Lincoln’s leading scorer during the promotion campaign and proved to be an important figure in one of the club’s most successful modern sides.
Dave Smith, Middlesbrough
Dave Smith arrived at Lincoln City from Middlesbrough in 1968 and soon became an important part of the side. Playing in midfield, he had the vision and composure to dictate games and was a key player as the club grew into one of the strongest teams in the division. His biggest success came in 1975–76 when Lincoln lifted the Fourth Division title. After spending almost ten years at Sincil Bank, Smith left behind a legacy that still earns him a place among the club’s most respected players.
Trevor Peake, Nuneaton Borough
Lincoln City signed Trevor Peake from Nuneaton Borough in 1979, giving the club a young defender who would soon become one of its most dependable players. Strong in the tackle and calm under pressure, Peake developed into a regular at the heart of the defence before making more than 200 appearances for the Imps. His form earned him a move to Coventry City in 1983, where he later won the FA Cup, showing just how successful Lincoln’s recruitment had been.
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