Michael Duff arrived in South Buckinghamshire with Wycombe Wanderers at a low ebb.

After a disastrous end to the 2024/25 campaign, which saw the Chairboys slip from second to fifth in the final three matches before suffering play-off heartbreak against Charlton Athletic, the following season began in similarly disappointing fashion.

Just two wins in 11 games under Mike Dodds, including six defeats, left Wanderers enduring their worst start to a season since 1998/99.

Dodds was dismissed on September 18, paving the way for Duff's arrival.

Wycombe Wanderers have today parted company with Head Coach Mike Dodds and First-Team Coach Pete Shuttleworth. — Wycombe Wanderers (@wwfcofficial) September 18, 2025

Wycombe Wanderers have today parted company with Head Coach Mike Dodds and First-Team Coach Pete Shuttleworth.

— Wycombe Wanderers (@wwfcofficial) September 18, 2025

The initial impact was immediate.

Duff altered the system, moving away from a lone striker and regularly deploying two forwards.

The tactical switch breathed new life into the side, helping Wanderers win nine of their next 15 matches while losing just once.

There were signs that Wycombe had rediscovered an identity.

However, momentum proved difficult to sustain.

One victory in nine games followed, including heavy 4-0 defeats to Exeter City in the FA Cup and Luton Town on Boxing Day.

Inconsistency then became the defining feature of the second half of the campaign.

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Duff as the club’s new Head Coach. Welcome to Wycombe, Michael! pic.twitter.com/bQ02YtUPzf — Wycombe Wanderers (@wwfcofficial) September 18, 2025

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Duff as the club’s new Head Coach. Welcome to Wycombe, Michael! pic.twitter.com/bQ02YtUPzf

— Wycombe Wanderers (@wwfcofficial) September 18, 2025

From New Year's Day, which began a 1-1 draw against soon-to-be promoted Cardiff City, through to the final match of the season, a 3-2 victory over already relegated Rotherham United, Wanderers never truly mounted a sustained challenge for the play-off places.

Their best spell came between late February and early March, when wins against Stevenage, Burton Albion........

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