Ex-Scotland captain predicts National League champions

Last term saw the greatest fifth-tier title race in history as York City and Rochdale went toe-to-toe until the final day, when they staged an unforgettable all-or-nothing clash as the Minstermen pipped their rivals to the sole promotion spot.

This one looks to be much more open, with Boreham Wood, Hartlepool United and Southend United among the favourites as well as newly relegated Harrogate Town.

But who are the early contenders to be crowned champions in May? 

Colin Hendry picks National League champions.

It has been a perfect start for six teams in the National League as the likes of Harrogate, Hartlepool, Southend and Boreham Wood have picked up six points from six.

Of course, it is a long season, and with multiple cup competitions to manage, the clubs with stronger squads, depth and consistency finish well towards the top.

Last season, Rochdale in particular raced out of the blocks, suggesting that getting off to a solid start can stand you in good stead for the rest of the campaign.

Former Scotland captain Colin Hendry, who worked as Boston United's assistant manager between 2006 and 2007, has had his say on one of the toughest divisions to predict.

"Well, Harrogate were relegated from League Two last year, and they've started the season with a win and got three points," he exclusively told DAZN News via livescore.com. 

"You've got Hartlepool, Southend, Forest Green; they're up there. Boreham Wood got a point to start. Barrow were relegated along with Harrogate. Harrogate and Barrow are definitely favourites.

"My favourite to go up, I would probably say, and on the strength of the first game and their win, would be Harrogate Town. They were in League Two for six seasons, so they've come back down with an infrastructure that's still in place.

"I'm going to go with Harrogate."

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Why are Harrogate favourites?

While Harrogate spent six successive seasons in League Two, that does not automatically guarantee promotion the following season.

In fact, over the last 10 years only one side has bounced back at the first attempt, and that was Grimsby Town when they defeated Solihull Moors in the 2021/22 play-off final.

However, manager Simon Weaver, who has been at the club for 17 years, has remained positive despite the club's relegation, with new signing Tom Lees echoing the club's vision to return to the fourth tier.

Furthermore, Harrogate have looked extremely threatening in front of goal, notching eight goals from their opening two games and appear to have quality all over the park.

Although traditionally a Non-League club, the Sulphurites have built and maintained an EFL structure and, given they narrowly went down last term, they are well positioned to bounce straight back.

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