What Are the Top Five EFL Surprises with Old Faces in New Places?

This weekend in the EFL sees John Eustace's Derby County take on Blackburn Rovers in a highly anticipated match that has significant implications for both teams. The return of Eustace to Ewood Park, where he previously managed, adds an intriguing subplot to what is already shaping up to be a competitive Championship season. As teams reach the one-third mark of the 2025-26 campaign, expect a thrilling weekend of football with plenty of drama and surprises.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The EFL is buzzing with excitement as teams settle into the rhythm of the season. This weekend features key matches that could alter the landscape of the table, particularly in the Championship where Derby County's encounter with Blackburn Rovers is set to be a highlight. Eustace, now at Derby, is looking to continue his impressive run of form, while Blackburn is eager to assert its dominance at home. With both teams in good form, this clash promises to be an engaging spectacle for fans.

Key takeaways

John Eustace returns to Blackburn with Derby, aiming for a fifth consecutive win.
Mark Robins' Stoke City faces Coventry, where he previously managed, in a crucial Championship clash.
League One sees a tight race at the top, with teams like Stockport and Charlton in contention for promotion.
League Two remains unpredictable, with just five points separating the top 13 teams.
Fans can expect drama and surprises as the season progresses into its second month.

Timeline: how we got here

The 2025-26 EFL season has seen several pivotal moments leading up to this weekend's fixtures:

29 July 2025: The EFL season kicks off with teams eager to make their mark.
1 September 2025: The transfer window closes, reshaping squad dynamics across all divisions.
30 September 2025: EFL clubs complete the first month of fixtures, with early trends emerging in the league tables.
October 2025: The first international break occurs, leading to team adjustments and tactical realignments.
27 October 2025: Key matches in the Championship and League One set the stage for an exciting weekend.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

John Eustace's return to Blackburn has become a focal point, with fans and players alike anticipating the match. His success at Derby has garnered attention, and the team is currently on a winning streak. In contrast, Stoke City is also in fine form, and their match against Coventry is expected to be highly competitive.

What was already established

Both Derby and Blackburn have faced their share of challenges this season, particularly with managerial changes and squad adjustments. Eustace's departure from Blackburn last year and subsequent rise at Derby has created a narrative filled with rivalry and intrigue. Meanwhile, Stoke's resurgence under Mark Robins has positioned them as serious contenders in the Championship.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The excitement surrounding these matches not only engages football fans but also boosts local economies as supporters flock to stadiums. Increased attendance can lead to higher sales for local businesses and a vibrant atmosphere in the towns hosting these games.

Businesses and jobs

Clubs like Derby and Stoke contribute significantly to local employment, from matchday staff to retail operations. A successful season can enhance job security and create new opportunities, especially in hospitality and event management sectors.

Policy and regulation

As clubs navigate the complexities of financial regulations, including the Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, the outcomes of this weekend's matches may influence boardroom discussions regarding player investments and future strategies.

Numbers that matter

39 goals scored by Coventry this season, highlighting their attacking prowess.
9 goals conceded by Stoke, making them the team with the best defensive record in the Championship.
4 consecutive wins for Derby County, showcasing their resurgence under Eustace.
83 points accumulated by Birmingham City in 2025, indicating their strong form this year.
5 points separating the top 13 sides in League Two, emphasizing the competitiveness of the division.

Definitions and jargon buster

EFL: English Football League, the governing body for professional football in England outside the Premier League.
FFP: Financial Fair Play, regulations designed to prevent clubs from spending beyond their means.
Promotion: The process of moving up a division in the league system based on performance.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans should keep an eye on the results of this weekend's matches, especially the outcomes for Derby and Blackburn as they could significantly influence their seasons moving forward.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the season progresses, clubs will need to monitor player fitness and performance. The January transfer window will also be a crucial time for teams to strengthen their squads.

Signals to watch

Match attendance figures, which may indicate fan engagement and club performance.
Injury reports and player form, as these will impact team strategies and outcomes.
Transfer activity in January, which could reshape the league landscape.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay updated with match previews and team news to understand the potential outcomes.
Engage with local businesses to support the community during match days.
Follow social media accounts of clubs for real-time updates on player performance and injuries.

Don’t

Don't underestimate the impact of fan support on team performance.
Don't ignore the financial implications of poor performance on clubs.
Don't forget to enjoy the atmosphere and community spirit during matches.

Checklist

Check the latest team news before match day.
Review league standings to understand the implications of each match.
Plan your journey to the stadium in advance to avoid delays.
Engage with fellow fans to enhance the match day experience.
Consider purchasing merchandise to support your team.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the current form of teams like Derby and Stoke is promising, injuries and unforeseen circumstances, such as fixture congestion or managerial changes, can quickly alter a team's trajectory. Additionally, the financial health of clubs can impact their performance levels, particularly as the season progresses.

Bottom line

This weekend's EFL fixtures are set to deliver intense competition and significant implications for teams across all divisions. With the return of John Eustace to Blackburn and vital clashes like Stoke versus Coventry, fans should prepare for a thrilling weekend of football that could reshape the league's landscape.

FAQs

What is the significance of John Eustace's return to Blackburn?

John Eustace's return to Blackburn is significant as it marks his first visit back since leaving for Derby, where he has led the team to impressive results. This adds an emotional layer to the match for both him and the fans.

How are Derby County performing this season?

Derby County is performing well this season, currently on a four-match winning streak, showcasing a strong resurgence under John Eustace's management.

What are the current standings in League One?

League One is highly competitive, with just three points separating the top six teams, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the division and the potential for dramatic shifts in the standings.