During summer the Board appointed Archie Gemmill as its new coach assistant, the former midfielder returned to the club after six seasons.

[1] Another arrival was midfielder Neil Webb in June, manager Brian Clough paid Portsmouth £250,000[2] reinforcing an ageing squad.

[3] The already ageing squad is rebuilding for this season, Dutch Goalkeeper Hans Segers with several injuries was replaced by Steve Sutton as starter.

[4] Central backs Paul Hart and Chris Fairclough were replaced by arrival Buttersworth and young defender Des Walker who had his breakthrough as starter.

The strikers line was completed by young forward Nigel Clough and veteran Davenport who clinched a transfer to Manchester United on 12 March 1986 for a fee of £750,000.