Match Preview | Sutton (A)

Match Preview | Sutton (A)
The background info on 'The U's'

January 16th 2026Harry Andrews

The Opposition: Sutton United

League: National League
League position: 20th
Nickname: The U’s

So far this season, the U’s have struggled in the National League. After a respectable 12th-place finish following relegation the previous year, this campaign has proven far more turbulent.

Long-standing manager Steve Morrison was relieved of his duties in September after Sutton picked up just one win from their opening nine league fixtures, an impressive victory against Carlisle United, but not enough to turn their fortunes around. The U’s subsequently appointed former Worthing boss Chris Agutter.

Sutton’s performances improved following the change, as they went unbeaten in all competitions throughout November. This run lifted them out of the bottom four. However, their form has tailed off over the past month, with no league wins since a 4–2 victory over Gateshead at Gander Green Lane. As a result, they are hovering just above the relegation places on goal difference.

In the Dugout: Chris Agutter

As mentioned above, Chris Agutter replaced Steve Morrison in October 2025. While he appeared to steady the ship during November, the festive period has proven more challenging for the U’s.

Before arriving at Sutton, Agutter was in charge at National League South side Worthing, having joined in May 2024 before departing for Sutton in October 2025. Prior to that, he enjoyed two spells at Hastings United between 2017 and 2024.

Agutter also brings a strong pedigree in youth development, having served twice as Youth Team Manager at Brighton & Hove Albion, as well as managing Stevenage’s U18 and U23 sides.

Player to Watch: Lewis Simper

Central midfielder Lewis Simper is the U’s top scorer so far this season, with eight goals and three assists in the National League. The 24-year-old joined the London side in the summer of 2024 after spending the previous campaign with Cambridge United in the English Football League.

Simper enjoyed an excellent purple patch during November, scoring four goals and registering one assist. Although he has not added to his tally in recent fixtures, Rovers will need to remain alert to the Englishman’s ability to cause problems from midfield.