In his second season as manager, Brian Clough and his assistant Peter Taylor transferred in several players to reinforce the squad including Notts County midfielders Somers and Sheridan, also arrived Full back Tony Bircumshaw[1] bringing a solid defensive line through the campaign.[2] However, on 15 November, chairman Ernie Ord prompted turmoil when he sacked Peter Taylor as he claimed he couldn't afford to pay him anymore. Clough refused to accept the dismissal so in turn, Ord sacked him as well.[3][4] Finally, the club Board removed Ord as chairman and both Clough and Taylor kept their jobs.[5]
In spite of the turmoil the squad had a good League season challenging the promotion spots almost the entire campaign until Spring and finished in a decent 8th place, only 7 points below the promotion. Meanwhile, in FA Cup the team was early eliminated by Shrewsbury Town in first round. In the League Cup it was Bradford Park Avenue which won the first series against Hartlepools in two legs.
Squad
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.