The 2023–24 season was Northampton Town's 127th season in their history and the first season back in League One, after promotion the previous season. Alongside competing in League One, the club also participated in the FA Cup, EFL Cup and EFL Trophy. The season covered the period from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024.
On 26 May, Northampton Town confirmed the squad would return to University of St Andrews in Scotland for a pre-season training camp.[2] Six days later, the first friendly was confirmed, against Birmingham City.[3] A second friendly was confirmed against Milton Keynes Dons.[4] A third friendly was announced, as part of the clubs annual open day, against Leicester City.[5] On 16 June, the Cobblers revealed a fourth friendly, against Brackley Town.[6] A week later, a fifth fixture was added, against Kidderminster Harriers.[7]
Source: EFL Official Website Rules for classification: 1) Points; 2) Goal difference; 3) Number of goals scored; 4) Head-to-head results; 5) Wins; 6) Away goals; 7) Penalty points (sec 9.5); 8) 12-point sending off offences[13] Notes:
^On 19 May 2023, Wigan Athletic were deducted four points for failing to pay players and staff on time following previous EFL rules breaches in the 2022–23 season.[8] Another four-point deduction was applied on 26 May, after the club's owners missed a deadline to deposit an amount equalling 125% of its monthly wage bill.[9]
^On 16 August 2023, Reading were deducted one point for failing to pay players on time and in full on three occasions in the 2022–23 season.[10] Another 3-point deduction was applied on 13 September, for failing to deposit wages on time.[11] Another 2-point deduction was applied on 27 February, due to late HMRC payments.[12]
Note: Fixture was initially scheduled to kick-off at 15:00, but was moved to avoid a logistical issue with Northampton Saints fixture the same day.[22]
At the end of the season, Northampton's annual award ceremony, including categories voted for by the players and backroom staff, the supporters, will see the players recognised for their achievements for the club throughout the 2023–24 season.