Neil Warnock has shared his hope that Huddersfield Town can mount a promotion challenge this season. The former Terriers manager, who holds the club dear, spoke as Martin Drury's side sits second in League One with four points from two games.
Warnock's comments were reported by the Yorkshire Post this week. The veteran boss, now an advisor at Torquay United, managed Huddersfield twice. His second spell in 2023 saw him perform a dramatic rescue act to keep the club in the Championship. They secured their safety in the penultimate game of the 2022-23 season against Sheffield United. "Probably one of the most emotional nights I’ve ever had was when we stayed up when I went back to try and keep them up in the league," Warnock said.
What is Huddersfield Town's current form?
Huddersfield Town have begun the new campaign strongly. They are currently second in the League One table, just two points behind leaders Bradford City. The team has taken four points from their opening two matches, recording one win and one draw. Their goal difference stands at plus three, having scored four times and conceded just once. This early form offers a solid platform after two underwhelming League One campaigns where they missed the play-offs.
Their season started with a convincing 3-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon at the Accu Stadium. Warnock admitted he almost missed the action. "I just turned my phone on and they were 2-0 up [against Wimbledon]. I thought, ‘Blink, you’re not going to miss them here’." That was followed by a 1-1 draw away at Milton Keynes Dons. The next test is a home fixture against Cambridge United on Saturday, August 29, with a 3pm kick-off. Fans can track the team's progress on our standings and fixtures pages.
Why does Neil Warnock care about the club?
Neil Warnock's connection to Huddersfield Town is deep and personal. He first managed the club in the 1990s before returning for his memorable short-term stint in 2023. Despite the club's subsequent relegation from the Championship in 2024, his affection has not dimmed. He describes Huddersfield as a great club with good supporters. Most tellingly, he says it holds a special place in his heart. This emotional tie fuels his current hope for their success under the management of Martin Drury and his staff, which includes former players Jon Stead and Michael Tonge.
What are the aims for this season?
The clear aim for Huddersfield Town this season is to improve on recent finishes and compete at the top end of League One. Warnock has publicly stated his hope that the team can challenge for promotion. At a minimum, he wants to see them finish in the top half of the table. The positive start provides early encouragement that this squad, currently detailed on our squad page, has the capability to be more competitive. The defensive record, with only one goal conceded, will be a key foundation if they are to sustain a challenge.
The early season data shows a team finding its feet quickly. Scoring four goals across two games demonstrates an attacking threat, while a tight defence suggests organisation. Being within touching distance of the top spot so early is a positive mental boost. The challenge now is to maintain consistency through a long season, starting with the Cambridge United match this weekend.
