Stevenage manager Alex Revell has laid bare the financial hurdles stifling his recruitment drive, even after the club’s play-off charge last season. With the club sitting 6th in League One (75 points, 21W-12D-13L) and 28 points behind leaders Lincoln, Revell said that League One’s financial landscape is ‘extremely difficult’-despite Stevenage’s recent progress.
Revell’s frustration is clear: Stevenage have been ‘blown out the window’ in talks with targeted players, despite three summer signings-striker Olly Sanderson, midfielder Terry Taylor, and forward Josh Magennis. The issue isn’t interest; it’s cash. ‘There’s a difference between being interested and losing out when you meet them,’ he said. Recent form-1 win in the last 5 (LLLLW)-hasn’t helped, either.
Football’s short-term mindset plays a role. Revell explained: ‘Players come and see what we’re about, then leave-not because they dislike it, but because financially, their careers are short.’ Last season’s play-off push (14th to play-offs in 2024-25) wasn’t enough to sway top targets, and losing defenders Charlie Goode and midfielder Harvey White this summer has left holes.
Despite the struggles, Revell insists there’s a ‘special’ quality to his squad. ‘We achieved something really special last year because we’re a special group,’ he said. The club’s +3 goal difference (49 scored, 46 conceded) suggests resilience, though the 2-0 loss to Stockport (2026-05-13) and upcoming Millwall home clash (2026-07-25) will test that.
Recruitment remains the priority. With only three signings so far, Revell’s focus is on ‘choosing the right types’-not only names. The challenge? Convincing players that Stevenage’s culture and hard work outweigh the financial gap. Next up: Millwall at home (July 25)-a win could shift momentum, but Revell’s words hint at a tougher battle ahead.
