How did they do?
Although they finished six points clear of the bottom two, it was a disappointing campaign for the U’s who finished 21st in the table. Only the three clubs below them won fewer than their 12 games and they lost 23 – the joint second-worst tally in the division – with 11 draws.
Who’s in charge?
Colin Calderwood, 54, took over at Cambridge in December 2018. As a player, he represented Scotland 36 times during the 1990s and made over 600 career appearances with Swindon, Tottenham, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa among his former clubs. He turned to management in 2003 with Northampton and also had spells in charge of Nottingham Forest and Hibs. He worked as Chris Hughton’s assistant at Newcastle, Birmingham and Brighton and was also No.2 to Steve Bruce during his time as Aston Villa boss.
Who’s leaving?
As well as several scholars, Cambridge have released David Forde, Emmanuel Osadebe, Lee Watkins, Matt Foy and Sam Squire.
Who’s coming?
Calderwood has made new contract offers to Jabo Ibehre, George Maris, Brad Halliday, Leon Davies, Tom Knowles, Gary Deegan, David Amoo and Finley Iron.
Who might be coming?
Calderwood has made no new signings yet but has been linked with Swindon’s former West Ham United defender Kyle Knoyle. The club have started ‘The Next Chapter’ – a campaign to enthuse existing supporters after a troubled season. They have already confirmed a new club record kit deal with Danish manufacturers Hummel.
How is their pre-season shaping up?
Highlight of their schedule is a home friendly against Leicester City. They will also play Ipswich Town after Calderwood takes them to Scotland for a week of intensive work.
Crawley links
Defender Louis John joined Cambridge last summer on a two-year deal from Sutton United. Louis was a member of Crawley’s youth set-up after joining the club in 2013 when Richie Barker was manager, but he never made a first-team appearance. He played 23 times for the U’s last season including the 2-0 defeat at Crawley last October.
