Burton Albion begin their ninth consecutive campaign in Sky Bet League One this weekend as they host Stevenage at the Pirelli Stadium. The match marks the opening day of the 46-game EFL league season.
Gary Bowyer's side arrive following a 2-1 defeat to Blackburn Rovers in the Carabao Cup. A year ago, Albion secured a 2-1 victory over Mansfield Town on opening day, with Charlie Webster scoring a brace.
Team News
Ciaran Gilligan and Kain Adom remain sidelined as they continue recovery from long-term injuries. Tyrese Shade is a doubt after groin issues in pre-season and last week, with Bowyer noting that transfer speculation from January has taken a mental toll. Curtis Tilt was withdrawn after 70 minutes against Blackburn but will be at full fitness for the weekend, having been managed during pre-season.
Opposition
Stevenage secured their place in the Carabao Cup second round on Friday night with a 95th-minute winner from new signing Josh Magennis against Wycombe Wanderers. The Boro finished joint highest in the league last season but fell short in the play-off semi-finals against Stockport County.
Alex Revell's side have strengthened over the summer, bringing in Terence Vancooten, Olly Sanderson, Terry Taylor and Daniel Barden from the Championship. Vancooten, a Guyanese defender, previously made 57 appearances for Albion across two seasons.
Match Details
Albion will wear their amber and black stripes. Admiral Sportswear's new third shirt for 2026/27 goes on sale today. Martin Coy is the match referee, last in charge of the Brewers in their 1-0 defeat at Bloomfield Road. Harley Hetherington and Marvin Amphlett are assistants, with Simon Robinson as fourth official.
