3 – Conor McGrandles
I have agonised over Conor McGrandles because, strictly speaking, I am judging the combined value of two permanent signings, but together they make an overwhelming case. Both of his permanent arrivals merit a mention: the first came on a free transfer in July 2020 after his MK Dons contract was terminated, and the second involved an undisclosed fee paid to Charlton Athletic in June 2024. Between them he made 96 appearances in his first Lincoln spell, left for Charlton in 2022 and spent time on loan at Cambridge United before returning here on loan in February 2024. His permanent return led to a League One winner’s medal and our Players’ Player of the Season award in 2025/26, followed by a new two-year deal with an additional year’s option.
His first spell alone might have earned a place in the top 20: he arrived for free, helped us reach the League One play-off final and was voted Player of the Season by Stacey West readers, before finding the following campaign more difficult as the demands on him changed. His eventual return wasn’t greeted with universal excitement, and I remember the underwhelmed messages when we announced his loan signing during our deadline-day live show. That spell then ended through injury after four appearances, making the decision to bring him back permanently another show of faith in both the footballer and the person.
He has rewarded it magnificently, becoming a driving force in our title-winning season and winning your Player of the Season award for a second time. Conor now feels part of the furniture, and that sustained contribution across different Lincoln sides is what separates him from players whose case rests on one outstanding campaign. For me, he is another who is building a legacy worthy of being called a club legend.
Hard to argue with the list … totally agree with comments about Harry Anderson !