Lucas Akins: Jailed footballer named in Mansfield Town squad list

Jailed footballer Lucas Akins has been included in Mansfield Town’s squad list this season and will be free to restart his career when released.

The 36-year-old began a 14-month prison sentence in April after pleading guilty to causing the death of a cyclist by careless or inconsiderate driving in March 2022.

He is understood to be available for release after serving half that sentence, with the remaining seven months to be served on license.

It means Akins could play for the League One side before Christmas.

In May, when Mansfield confirmed its retained list, the club stated that it was “continuing to consider it position” regarding the striker whose deal at the club was thought to have expired at the end of last season.

The squad lists, as published on the English Football League website, are confirmation of what players clubs have under contract, registered and available for the season.

In response to BBC Sport questions about the squad list, Mansfield said: “The club will review Lucas’ position as and when he is released from custody and will make no further comment at this time”.