Exciting Developments in EFL Football This Weekend
Yet more incredible storylines emerged from another thrilling weekend in the EFL.
Chris Wilder has made a successful return to Sheffield United, leading the team to victory against Oxford, while Ipswich appears to be regaining momentum with a win over Portsmouth.
Lincoln City showcased their strength with a convincing win against Peterborough in League One, and in League Two, Grimsby Town delivered a stunning 7-1 victory over Cheltenham, while Walsall climbed to the top of the table.
'It was Sheffield United of old'
Sheffield United secured their first win since Chris Wilder's return, thanks to a goal from Callum O'Hare.
Parkin: "It is not going to be a quick fix, as I mentioned last week. The statistics show they conceded a lot of possession to Oxford. Gary Rowett's team has improved players and more strategies to challenge the opposition. I anticipated a tough match.
Chris Wilder experienced success last year with a transitional team, and it seems they are returning to that form. They attempted to evolve under Ruben Selles but have reverted to the style that brought them success last season.
Callum O'Hare is now playing in his preferred position as a number eight, and Gustavo Hamer is back in form. The crucial takeaway is the three points, but they will need consistency to reach their pre-season goals.
'Ipswich will move up now'
Jaden Philogene and George Hirst's goals helped Ipswich achieve back-to-back home wins, reigniting hopes for a team that began the season as promotion favorites.
Parkin: "I expect Ipswich to rise in the standings. Like many relegated teams, it takes time to refocus.
They previously defeated Sheffield United at Portman Road, and today's match against Portsmouth was expected to be challenging. Portsmouth is well-organized, especially away from home, so a narrow margin was anticipated.
I predicted Ipswich would win, and Jaden Philogene has been outstanding, scoring four goals in his last two home games. George Hirst is effectively stepping in for Liam Delap.
This was a solid victory, and I foresee Ipswich moving up the table now.
'Grimsby's football has surprised me'
Grimsby Town shocked League Two with a 7-1 rout of bottom-placed Cheltenham, who finished the match with only nine players on the pitch.
Parkin: "Grimsby is a captivating team. Having seen them live this season, I was impressed by the sophistication of their play.
David Artell has a commendable reputation from previous promotions, and it's evident why. Facing Grimsby is becoming increasingly challenging, but Cheltenham's woes—losing their manager and Gary Johnson as director of football—were recipe for disaster.
You have to sympathize with the interim staff and the nine players left on the pitch. Playing with nine men for an extended period is among the toughest experiences for a footballer.
'Lincoln have goals coming from everywhere'
Lincoln City currently sits third in League One after a dominant 3-0 win over Peterborough.
They experienced a few near misses last season and were close to making the play-offs the year before. I was particularly impressed with their performance against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup; had it not been for a few chaotic moments, they could have caused an upset.
Lincoln is robust and poses various threats from set pieces. They scored two goals from full-backs, Tendayi Darikwa and Adam Reach, demonstrating their ability to score from multiple positions and showcasing their depth in attacking options.
They have a well-rounded squad, and I have high hopes for a potential play-off season for Lincoln.
'Something special happening at Walsall'
Mat Sadler's Walsall is leading League One after a 3-1 victory over Accrington, seemingly overcoming last season's play-off heartbreak.
Parkin: "Walsall faced one of the toughest summers for any club, especially after losing in the play-offs.
The stark decline in their results after the turn of the year made it clear that something special was needed to turn things around. I genuinely believe something remarkable is unfolding there, with continuity under Mat Sadler's management and the successful integration of new signings contributing to their impressive start.
Sam Parkin was speaking to BBC Sport England's Harry De Cosemo.