Category: Football Content

As we move to within just two weeks of our opening pre-season friendly on Saturday 5th July, away at Exmouth Town, Yeovil have finally announced their first signing of the Summer, after plenty of chance at the very top of the club. The Glovers have announced the permanent addition of two-time, former loanee, Tahvon Campbell. The 28 year-old forward has signed a 1-year contract at Huish Park, keeping the former Solihull Moors forward in the Southwest until the end of the 2025/26 season.

In this upcoming blog piece, I will be completing a detained analysis on our new forward-option, explaining and analysing key parts of his game, including strengths, weaknesses and how he’ll fit into Mark Cooper’s system, as well as much, much more.

I’ll be completing a similar analysis on ALL of our Yeovil’s signings through the 2025/26 season, so make sure you subscribe to my blog page and follow my Twitter page, @CallumHallett6. If you have any requests for blog pieces you’d like me to make, be sure to comment on this blog piece, or through my Twitter page, or my email, which is linked in my Twitter Bio.

Just before we get into the analysis, I hope you enjoy the read, any shares, likes or follows would be massively appreciated, thankyou! Let’s get into it!

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An Introduction…

Tahvon Campbell is a name who will sound familiar to most Yeovil Town fans, who watched the Glovers throughout the 2015/16 and 2016/17 seasons, where the now 28-year-old forward, joined the club on two separate loan spells from West Brom. During his first spell in Green & White, Campbell played 17 times in League Two, scoring once. During his second spell, just one season later, he scored another singular goal.

Since then, Campbell has moved around a lot, spending time at many different sides through The National League and League Two. His two most successful, high-profile, periods came in a spell at Woking, in which he scored thirteen times in 21 National League games, earning himself a move to Rochdale in League Two, where it unfortunately didn’t work out.

Campbell moved to Solihull Moors at the beginning of the 2023/24 season, where he’s had a tough time with injuries, whilst displaying real quality when he has been available. He’s scored twelve times for The Moors, across 28 National League games. His record in the fifth tier is fairly impressive, scoring 34 times in his last seventy games. Unfortunately he’s had an issues with his knee over the past 24 months, which has seriously hindered his game-time.

At 28, Campbell is entering his prime years, so will be hoping for more consistent minutes next season, back playing in Green & White, in-front of a fanbase who have reacted well to his return!

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Strengths…

As previously mentioned; Tahvon Campbell is a forward who will bring fantastic physical attributes to our squad, allowing him to be a different profile to the current forwards at the club (Aaron Jarvis & Harvey Greenslade). Campbell, who turns 29 in January, brings a mixture of pace, power, strength and mobility to our frontline. These attributes will allow him to change his game up, either being able to run the channels, play off of the last line in defence or even drop into the half spaces to receive possession.

His ability to move freely when in control of the ball should allow him to thrive in pockets of space where a player like Jarvis may struggle. He’s nimble and light-footed, giving him the ability to weave in between players and create angles for shooting/passing opportunities. He’s often able to create chances for himself, utilising his excellent footwork and physical attributes, meaning he should still find himself having opportunities to score, even in a game where the team struggles to create.

Campbell, who has played under manager Mark Cooper at Forest Green and Notts County previously, has scored 34 times in his past 70 National League appearances, displaying a clinical, killers-instinct side to his game. He’s known to score a wide variety of goals during his career, often with his right foot. He’s someone who score scrappy goals, goals from range, penalties, one-on-ones and also the spectacular with skillful goes as well. This is the type of variety we will be looking for next season to bring that sense of class and trust in having a player who can score from nowhere.

Campbell will thrive in a forward pairing alongside Aaron Jarvis; Both players attributes will allow them to combine superbly, utilising Jarvis as a proper “Number Nine” with Campbell given a licence to move around and get on the ball.

As mentioned previously, Tahv’ has spent time being coached by Mark Cooper previously, during his loans spells at Notts County and Forest Green Rovers. This can only be seen as a positive, meaning it’ll take less time to settle into the style and system.

Additionally, this is likely a signing showing the pulling-power of the training ground move; Tahvon Campbell is located in Bristol and has had injury issues previously, meaning the quality of pitch provided in Bristol will give him the best chance of staying fit for as much of the season as possible.

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Weaknesses…

Weaknesses were few and far between for Tahvon Campbell in terms of play as a “Number Nine.” I spoke to Solihull Moors fan, Callum Moseley who mentioned Campbell’s lack of good decision making at times, so decided to take a look myself. Sometimes he’d fail to lift his head to look for a better pass/option, displaying a lack of vision and awareness. It’s good for forwards to have selfishness at times but his decision making of when to pass, shoot or carry needs to improve.

Another notable weakness/worry is obviously his injury record. He broke his foot at Rochdale and has struggled with a knee injury since rejoining Solihull Moors in 2023. Recovery and surgery has kept him out for a long, long time, only returning towards the back end of last season. I think Campbell will benefit massively from training in Bristol with the best facilities and pitches available, giving him as a little opportunity to get injuries as possible.

The final weakness I have is potentially a character issue. He shows signs of dropping his head and getting frustrated easily if he’s not getting on the ball to make things happen.

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Tactical Fit…

From his time at Solihull Moors, Campbell displayed a willingness to pop in different areas across the top of the pitch, making himself difficult to mark. With Jarvis also being fairly mobile, I could see the two constantly rotating between positions in the front two positions. Both are willing to run the channels and work hard for their side, whilst being open to giving options for teammates with the central areas of the pitch. Playing the two upfront together will allow us to carry more of an offensive threat.

Both Jarvis and Campbell are capable of spinning in behind the opposition defence but I’d say Campbell’s physical attributes are more-suited to that, with Jarvis showing great capabilities of dropping a little bit deeper to link play and hold up the ball. Tahvon Campbell gives Jarvis a target from his headers or knock-ons, where Jarvis became very successful last year, without having anyone running onto the loose balls.

The screenshot above is from Tahvon Campbell’s goal for Solihull Moors versus Dorking Wanderers. The screenshot displays one of Campbell’s favourite movements from in between the two central defenders, not allowing the defender, who’s behind Campbell, to get goal side of the former West Brom youngster. His movement is sharp and proactive, allowing him to get a few steps ahead of the opposition, giving him the momentum to find space in behind, before finishing first time into the bottom corner.

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Overall, I think this is an excellent first signing for Mark Cooper, especially if we can keep Campbell fit. He’s proven to score goals at the level and his whole game suits what we are trying to do by signing athletes – He’ll make for a perfect partner to Aaron Jarvis. The move to Bristol Training Ground will have helped with this signing massively – These excellent facilities give Campbell a much lesser chance of gaining another injury. He’s also located in Bristol as well.

So, Signing Number One is in the door at Huish Park; 28 year-old forward, Tahvon Campbell has agreed a 1-year-deal in Green & White. I’d love to hear your opinions on the signing! Any shares are much appreciated and any feedback on a piece that is quite different, would be taken on-board as well.

I hope you enjoyed the read!

As the Summer Transfer Window kicks into its stride, shortly after the end of eventful, dramatic season and National League Playoff Final, all clubs up and down the county, at every level, are beginning to focus in on what players they’d like to recruit in preparation for what will be an exciting 2025/26 season. For Rochdale and Jim McNulty, Summer business seems to have started at a steady pace, with just one new addition being announced so far, in the form of experienced right back, Bryce Hosannah and another right-sided fullback, Dan Moss, from Woking.

During the 2024/25 season, Dale opted against signing a permanent Number One ahead of a campaign in which high expectations were held by their fans. Despite hitting these expectations by finishing fourth in a very competitive division, Rochdale went through five goalkeeper during last season. This constant change and failure to retain a consistent figure in between the goal-posts certainly wouldn’t have helped matters for Dale.

In this goalkeeping-focused-recruitment-piece, I will be aiming to find the perfect permanent, starting goalkeeper for Rochdale; someone who can play 40+ games for McNulty’s side next season, becoming a constant in Dale’s defensive unit. I will be taking a lot at FIVE different options that Rochdale could potentially look to sign this Summer, ahead of another season where expectations will be high, in an extremely competitive division, housing huge budgets such as Forest Green, Carlisle United and York City.

Before we begin, I’d like to take some time to say thankyou to all who are reading this blog piece – I’d love to hear your thoughts and opinions on who Rochdale should sign as a permanent goalkeeper next season. Any shares would be greatly appreciated as well as feedback, as I’m always looking to improve my work. Enjoy the read!

So, without further-ado, let’s get to work…

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Paul Farman (35yo) – Free Transfer

My first suggestion is also my most experienced option out of my five picks; you won’t find many more experienced goalkeepers available than Paul Farman, who has hundreds of appearances in both League Two and The National League, including a promotion out of this division, with Lincoln City, where Farman was a key player in that superb side, including that special FA Cup run, including a clean sheet at Turf Moor.

Paul Farman, 35, has spent the previous four seasons racking up over 100 appearances for The Bluebirds in League Two, becoming an ever-present on match days, up until the end of March, this season, where Wyll Stanway took the reigns. Barrow actually train in Manchester so Farman is unlikely to have to relocate very far, if he was to join Rochdale.

Farman has been a consistent, solid pair of hands for Barrow, since their promotion into The Football League, becoming a key reason in the club solidifying themselves into League Two. He’s less physically capable these days, and his reactions would have dropped off slightly, however, I think Farman still has plenty to offer in The National League and his experience and understanding of how to get promoted out of this division, would be so valuable for Dale.

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Zan-Luk Leban (22yo) – Free Transfer

From Paul Farman, a player who has made hundreds of appearances across The National League and Football League, down to my second pick, someone who has made just 43 appearances in senior football, all coming in The National League North, in an extremely successful loan spell at Farley Celtic. In his other seasons in professional football, Zan-Luk Leban has been a goalkeeping option for Everton’s youth sides in PL2.

At 22 years of age, it’s no surprise to see Leban wanting to leave Everton for an opportunity at first team, senior football, for just the second time in his career. His stock is still fairly high from his impressive spell at Farsley and I believe he will find himself a National League club this Summer. Living in Liverpool, a relocation to Rochdale isn’t a difficult one and it would likely guarantee him first team football and a platform in which he can improve and progress as a senior goalkeeper.

The Slovenian Under-21s International is a brilliant shot-stopper who often displays excellent reflexes, reactions and agility to halter the opposition from getting a goal. He’s a good modern-day goalkeeper who matches his superb goalkeeping attributes, with a great passing range and ability to play brave passes into risky areas. This suits the way that Dale want to play under McNulty.

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Owen Evans (28yo) – Free Transfer

Option one of my five suggestions was for Rochdale to sign an extremely experienced head who has hundreds of appearances across The National League and League Two, as well as a promotion out of this level. Option two was a young goalkeeper who has just one season of senior experience in a league below The National League. For my third option, I’ve gone for a player who is entering their prime years as a goalkeeper, but has seriously struggled to settle down anywhere for a prolonged period of time.

My suggestion? 28 year-old goalkeeper, Owen Evans, who was recently announce to be leaving Cheltenham at the end of the season, after spending the end of last season as the Champions number one. He’s experienced many ups and downs in football but having experienced a promotion out of this division is something he can take onto his next club.

Evans has spent time in the North before, at Wigan Athletic, between 2017 and 2021, where he saw loans to Sutton, Macclesfield and Cheltenham. This probably shows that a relocation back to North-West wouldn’t be out of the realms of possibility for the former Welsh Youth-International. His calmness and composure really pushed The Bees on seeing off the competition to come home with The National League Trophy – Something that could really help Dale next season. Building a strong defence is vital for McNulty.

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Ben Winterbottom (23yo) – Free Transfer

My penultimate option will likely be a popular and favoured option among Dale fans as well as, potentially, being the most realistic option, as there seems to genuine interest from McNulty and Rochdale. I’ve gone for a player who’s has a high-profile youth career, spending time at Blackburn Rovers and Liverpool, before most recently joining Brentford back in 2022. Ben Winterbottom, 23, was then released by The Bees this Summer, and will be looking for a permanent home.

Winterbottom has now had a full season of experience in The National League, as I spent the entirety of last season on loan at relegated side, AFC Fylde. However, The Coasters relegation was very little to do with the performances of their young goalkeeper, who was actually one of the best performing goalkeepers in the division, making 4.2 saves per game at a save percentage of 71%.

Despite spending the past 3 seasons at Brentford, it’s clear that Winterbottom is aiming for a return to the North West next season. I am struggling to see a much better fit than Rochdale; a club with high aspirations of promotion and a big club for the level as well. He’s a modern-day goalkeeper who enjoys displaying his excellent passing range, often being able to pick out long, accurate passes to start counterattacks. His shot-stopping heroics from last season is certainly another tick in his box – I really can’t look beyond Ben Winterbottom for Rochdale.

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Archie Mair (24yo) – Free Transfer

We’ve so far been through four candidates who could potentially be options for Rochdale as a Number One goalkeeper for the upcoming season, giving a mixture of options, sometimes utilising experience, sometimes noticing potential and using Talent ID. My final candidate is a player who has relocated a number of times in his short career to date, mainly out on loan, since joining Norwich City back in 2019.

Archie Mair was announced to have been released by The Canaries this Summer and the 24 year-old, modern-day goalkeeper, will be desperate to get playing first team football, especially after a frustrating season on loan at Motherwell… Yeah she’s fine, thanks for asking! He’s had three interesting stints in The National League at King’s Lynn, Notts County and then Gateshead. He’s also spent time at Dartford, Morecambe, as well as the previously mentioned Motherwell… I’ve already told you! She’s fine thanks!

Mair still has a lot of convincing to do before I believe he’d be a solid goalkeeper at the level. He’s an excellent ball-player; Fantastic passing range. Composed in possession and willing to take risks. However, his shot-stopping is something which I still have question-marks over. He’s clearly willing to relocate and his previously spent time in the North-West with Morecambe; he’s definitely an option for Dale!

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Here is my 1-5 picks taking into account realism and ability, among other things:

[1] – Ben Winterbottom // Genuine interest. North-West location. National League proven. Potential to improve.

[2] – Paul Farman // National League winner. Trained in Manchester with Barrow. Hundreds of appearances in NL + EFL. Leadership + Experience.

[3] – Zan-Luk Leban // Potential to improve. North-West location. Lack of senior experience. Never played @ NL level.

[4] – Owen Evans // Spent time in the North-West @ Wigan. Unable to fully settle @ a club previously. Slightly unrealistic? Think he’ll re-sign for Barnet in L2.

[5] – Archie Mair // Spent time in the North-West @ Morecambe. Not fully convinced on him. Often clumsy + mistake-prone, despite being excellent in possession. Potentially wanting to move back to Scotland?

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That is the end of my “Searching for Rochdale’s Perfect goalkeeper” piece – I’m interested to know who you think is the best option for Dale and also; what do you think of my suggestions?

Thankyou for reading! I would appreciate any feedback or support on the blog, either commenting on this piece or through social media. I hope you enjoyed the read.

If you have any requests for blog pieces you’d like to see, make sure to comment on this post/blog or give me a message via Twitter or email – @Calowenh@icloud.com

It’s no secret that Ebbsfleet United fans will be wiping this torrid season from their memories as soon as the final game has been played on the Fifth of May. The Fleet survived relegation on the final day of the 2023/24 season by two points, meaning expectations were fairly high for having a positive campaign under a highly-rated Danny Searle.

However, fourty-six games later, Ebbsfleet are on to their third manager of the season, winning just twice across the entire season. Josh Wright is United’s current manager, and is liked by many for his passionate team talks and upturn in performances, if not results. I expect Wright to be in charge of Ebbsfleet next season, as the club look to gain promotion straight back to The National League.

Following the clubs relegation back into The National League South, after a difficult two-year-stay in The National League Premier, I have challenged myself in writing a recruitment document for The Fleet, for the the Summer Transfer Window, in preparation for their attempt at gaining promotion straight back up.

So, let’s get into it!

|| Current players likely to stay ||

I spoke to @TheFleetZone on Twitter, about this part of my blog piece, he said that there is likely to be a large turnover of players in the Summer, with a couple likely to stay in The National League, others having a tough time with The Fleet, so will not be retained. Here are the players chosen to stay and a little bit on information/opinion from me..:

Mark Cousins // 38yo // GK

I think Josh Wright and Ebbsfleet are likely to recruit younger, hungrier players in the 2025 Summer Transfer Window, so retaining dressing room leaders such as Mark Cousins could be vital. His experience could be valuable for The Fleet next season, especially considering the former Colchester United goalkeeper was promoted from The National League South in 2022/23 with Ebbsfleet. The 38 year-old veteran has been a solid pair of hands for the last few seasons now and probably still has the ability and physical attributes to apply himself to a good standard in The National League South, either as a starter or backup.

Tom Dallison // 29 // LCB

For similar to reasons Mark Cousins, I believe that The Fleet are likely to retain central defender, Tom Dallison, due to his experiences at a higher level. The 29 year-old defender has never played as low as The National League South before, and could be a key player if Ebbsfleet are to return straight back up to Step One. He’s spent most of this season playing as a left-sided defender in a back five, which is where he could be utilised again next season.

Mustapha Olagunja // 23 // CB

Alongside some of the experience that Ebbsfleet will be looking to keep for their first season back in The National League South, they also have a couple of younger, hungry players who will be desperate to stay on and prove a point next season. One of these that I think is likely to stay, is 23 year-old, central defender, Mustaphu Olagunja. The former Huddersfield Town academy player has looked a bright player for The Fleet when called upon this season. He’s a physical monster with plenty of space and power who could dominate The National League South. After playing just over twenty times for Ebbsfleet this season, and a short spell in Step Two at Hemel Hempstead, Olagunja is surely wanting to stay at Ebbsfleet and become a regular starter.

Luke O’Neil // 33 // CB

Luke O’Neil is the third and final central defender I think Ebbsfleet will likely keep hold of for one more season, again, due to his experience and leadership in the backline. He’s unlikely to be a start for The Fleet in The National League South, especially as I think Wright will look to sign a new player for that right-sided defensive position, but his experience is so valuable. O’Neil has only played around twenty times for Ebbsfleet this season, mainly being utilised as right back or right-sided defender.

Josh Passley // 30 // RB/RWB

Right wingback is one of the few positions where Ebbsfleet probably won’t need to recruit anybody, unless a serious injury occurs during preseason. Josh Passley is another experienced player who has spent his career towards the bottom of the EFL and top of The National League. The 30 year-old wingback perfectly suits the way The Fleet will want to attack using their wide players next season; Great athlete and superb deliveries from out wide.

Elijah Anthony // 21 // RB/RWB

With Passley as their starting right wingback, it allows The Fleet to have one of their younger, more exciting talents to backup the former Fulham academy player. 21 year-old wingback, Elijah Anthony was signed by Ebbsfleet at the beginning of the 2024/25 campaign, before spending time on loan at Chatham Town and AFC Croydon, throughout the campaign. I think it’s likely that the former QPR youngster will feature more frequently for The Fleet next season, in a bid to develop the youngster into becoming a fantastic wingback.

Lewis Page || 28 || LB/LCB/LWB

The next player likely to stay at Ebbsfleet for next season, is the final defender of my retained list. Lewis Page, formally of some big EFL clubs such as Charlton and Coventry has struggled to find consistent minutes for The Fleet this season, due to injuries. The 28 year-old left back has played just sixteen times for The National League’s bottom side. I think he could be a good utility player for Ebbsfleet next season, bring some vital experience and versatility to their squad, being able to play as a left sided defender, left back, or left wingback.

Maxx Manktelow // 18 // CM

Maxx Manktelow is the second of three young players that I feel could make a huge impact at Ebbsfleet United next season, using a season in The National League South to develop and learn in senior football. Manktelow has broken through into The Fleet’s first team this season, playing 1000 minutes of senior football as an 18 year-old. The academy graduate has been utilised in many positions under Josh Wright, but will likely develop into an excellent deep midfielder as his career progresses. This is where I see him becoming a consistent appearance-maker for the club next season.

George Moncur // 31 // AM/CM

Despite the season being such a dark, negative episode in the clubs history, one MASSIVE positive was the announcement of star player, George Moncur, signing on a permanent deal from League One side, Leyton Orient. This was a real statement of intent from The Fleet, as the 31 year-old has impressed this season, even in a struggling Ebbsfleet side. He’s still got the technical ability to play in The National League, if not League Two, and will comfortably be one of the best players in the National League South next season.

Kymani Thomas // 21 // LW/RW/ST

After Elijah Anthony and Maxx Manktelow, Kymani Thomas is the third and final young player I will be focusing on and is likely to be retained by The Fleet for their 2025/26 season. Thomas has spent this season developing on loan at Waltham Abbey, where he has impressed due to his physicality, power and superb ball-carrying from a forward position. I’d be shocked if he was a starter for The Fleet next season but he could become a superb squad player, to make a great impact in the latter stages of games.

Aaron Cosgrave // 25 // ST

The final player that I believe Ebbsfleet United will retain for their attempt at gaining promotion straight back to The National League is Aaron Cosgrave, a player who has hit a spark of form in recent weeks, helping The Fleet pick up a few impressive results. The 25 year-old forward has scored nine times, assisting twice in just 35 appearances this season, starting on just 25 occasions. He may potentially stay in Step One, however, a season where he’d score twenty-plus goals could be attractive.

|| Dom Poleon + Toby Edser ||

Of course, Ebbsfleet United fans, staff and Josh Wright would love to keep both Dom Poleon and Toby Edser at the club for their 2025/26 National League South campaign, however, I have to stay as realistic as possible. I’d be shocked if either of these two are still at the club for their opening game of the season, as they will surely have interest from National League sides. Toby Edser is a wonderful midfield player who brings a calmness and composure to The Fleet’s midfield, due to his fantastic technical ability. Dom Poleon has struggled to get going this season but has previously proven his goalscoring qualities for the club, meaning his stock is probably high enough to stay in The National League.

|| Formation + Setup ||

The photo above is a blank, on-paper formation displaying the way Ebbsfleet are likely to set up next season, if Josh Wright is in charge. They are likely to play with high intensity, looking to create plenty of chances through the technical quality in midfield and the width, which will be held by the wingbacks. The two strikers are likely to be asked to play quite a complete role for The Fleet, having the responsibility to run into channels, creating space for the advanced midfielders to run into. There will be a clear focus on technical ability and athleticism when recruiting for the new season.

They will defend with three central defenders, protected by a positionally disciplined holding midfielder, given the role of shielding the back-three out of possession. In possession, the goalkeepers and defenders will be tasked with playing progressive passes and taking risks in possession. The holding midfielder will need to be able to pass the ball and receive with his back to goal.

In the following part of the recruitment document, I will be looking at specific profiles for each position where The Fleet need to strengthen, before giving a suggestion of a player for each position.

|| Positions + Profiles Needed ||

The photo above is a clear squad lineup, including the players that I believe Ebbsfleet are likely to retain for their 2025/26 season. The positions that I will be looking to recruit a player in have been labelled as “NEW” to make thing as clear as possible for you to read.

Backup Goalkeeper

As mentioned previously, I expect Mark Cousins to stay at Ebbsfleet for one final year, before the 38 year-old, veteran goalkeeper retires from professional football. I think he’s likely to be the starting goalkeeper, so The Fleet will need to sign a backup goalkeeper he can learn off of Cousins and be ready to play when called upon. The goalkeeper needs to be someone young, who can learn off of Cousins, before taking the Number One shirt in the next nine-to-twelve months. They need to be comfortable with the ball at their feet, aggressive off of their line and a strong shot-stopper.

Athletic Right-sided Defender

By retaining four central defenders, with a mixture of experience, athleticism and technical quality, I have allowed myself to only recruit one defender; a starter, who has the capability to play on the right side of a back-three. I will be looking to recruit a young defender with fantastic physical attributes such as pace, power and strength. They have to be excellent in possession to be capable of taking risks when on the ball. The final point of my criteria for this position was to find a player who can dominate and win their aerial duels, so they aren’t caught out from crosses or set-pieces.

Left Wingback

The third position I’ll be looking at recruiting is an athletic wingback with fantastic quality in wide areas, who can pick up assists from crosses, or cutbacks. I’d like them to be young, with National League South experience, so they are capable of dealing with some of the dangerous wingers in the division. The wingbacks are likely to be some of the most important positions on the pitch for Josh Wright, so finding a player who is comfortable in possession, who thrives in one-on-one’s when running at defenders is a must.

Holding Midfielder

Now for the most important position in this style; Finding a holding midfielder who is a tough-tackler, extremely aggressive into challenges and positionally disciplined to be able to protect the three defenders behind them. They also have to be capable in receiving the ball off of their defenders, often with their back to goal, being able to pass progressively and keep play ticking over. I’d like for my suggestion to have experience in The National League South but someone who is mobile enough to cover plenty of ground and play consistently throughout the season.

Advanced Midfielder(s) (2)

The midfield is where I will be doing most of my rebuilding of this Ebbsfleet United side, with The Fleet likely to keep just one senior midfielder (George Moncur) alongside the young Maxx Manktelow, a lot of work is needed, especially in the ‘Advanced Eight’ positions. I am looking for one experienced starter, to partner Moncur, and then a younger project, who can develop as a squad player. Players in this position have been extremely comfortable with receiving the ball in awkward areas, having a fantastic ball-carrying ability and be able to create chances consistently. Athleticism is not a key attribute for this position but they can’t be a slouch. If they carry a goal threat, that is an added bonus, alongside all of their other technical qualities.

Athletic Forward

With Aaron Cosgrave and Kymani Thomas, I think The Fleet only need to sign one forward this Summer, giving them three excellent options in the final third. As mentioned previously, the forward has to be athletically strong, powerful and quick; being able to run the channels and compete across the pitch is going to be vital for this position. I’ll be recruiting someone with good size and stature, looking for someone who is strong in the air but really mobile as well. They need to be able to work well with a partner and bring others into the game. Oh… of course they have to be a goalscorer as well!

|| Players Identified ||

Backup Goalkeeper // Jos Barker

• From Walton & Hersham (Step 3) – Fee

For consistent readers of my Twitter profile and blog page, this is probably a name you will get used to hearing consistently over the next 6-12 months, due to how impressed I was when I watched Walton & Hersham, in The Swans 2-1 win over Taunton Town, a couple of months ago. The 21 year-old goalkeeper impressed me with his aggressive style when coming to claim crosses and set-pieces. This displayed excellent confidence, which really impressed me, especially for a young goalkeeper, who didn’t seem phased by the physical test.

Walton & Hersham are one of the best footballing sides in Step 3, meaning there is a heavy reliance on Joe Barker being progressive and confident with his passing, often being put under pressure, but being able to deal with it calmly, distributing with quality.

With Cousins continuing to be the Number One at Ebbsfleet, we could see a situation where Barker is loaned back to Walton & Hersham for a season, to gain more, valuable first team experience, coming back to The Fleet in time for the 2026/27 season as the Number One. His attributes perfectly suit the type of style Ebbsfleet will look to use if he was ever called upon in The National League South, also proving his superb shot-stopping capabilities throughout the 2024/25 campaign.

Barker already has plenty of valuable experience in senior football, from him time at Knaphill and Walton.

Central Defender // Deon Woodman

•From Wealdstone (Step 1) – Free

I feel that Ebbsfleet may make a couple serious statement signings this Summer, especially with them likely to have one of the larger budgets in The National League South. Deon Woodman joined Wealdstone at the beginning of the 2024/25 season, on a permanent deal from QPR, however, he struggled to find regular minutes so joined St Albans on loan, a side struggling towards the bottom of The National League South. Woodman has impressed on loan at The Saints, displaying his fantastic defensive and physical attributes.

Woodman has the technical attributes to suit a style which involves passing out from the back, taking lots of risks with progressive passing into midfield, or into the wingbacks, whilst coming under lots of pressure from the opposition. His composure and calmness in possession means the 22 year-old defender is unlikely to panic.

Out of possession, Woodman possesses some fantastic physical attributes, including a wonderful athleticism, which involves being incredibly quick, powerful, strong into duels and sharp on the turn. He often times his tackles to perfection, wins a large number of his duels, both aerially and on the ground, whilst being dominant in the air.

It’s no surprise to anybody that Woodman would be my starting right-sided defender in a 5-3-2 formation, with Luke O’Neil having the experience and know-how to be capable of playing the role as backup, likely to be a greater nurture for Woodman throughout training sessions.

Left Wingback // Liam Vincent

• From Tonbridge (Step 2) – Free

I think The Fleet are likely to have a strong pulling power next season, compared to a lot of clubs in the division, meaning they should be able to tempt players into joining them, from rival National League South teams. There is going to be a lot of change at Tonbridge this season, mainly due to former manager, Jay Saunders, surprisingly leaving The Angels, before joining Folkestone Invicta. One player that could potentially move on this Summer, is 22 year-old wingback, Liam Vincent. The former Portsmouth youngster has had a wonderful season in blue and white, storing nine times, proving three assists, in 38 games.

The wingbacks are likely to be key offensive players for Ebbsfleet next season, with Josh Wright expecting lots of output in the final third. This season, Vincent has proven that he bring real threat in wide areas, including wicked deliveries into the penalty area, fantastic manipulation of the ball, to make space for shooting and passing opportunities and sharp movements to create space for himself and his teammates.

Due to his expectations in the offensive areas of the pitch, he could potentially get caught out or position on certain occasions, meaning he has to work hard to get back in shape. He’s extremely quick and has proven a fantastic work-ethic at The Angels this season; an attribute that will be right at the top of Josh Wright’s list. With the three defenders and Henry Ochieng in a solid defensive block, it would allow The Fleet to be very free-flowing in attack.

I have chosen to sign only one wingback, to keep squad numbers as low as possible, meaning that a backup to Vincent could potentially be signed on loan from a local club. I expect Vincent to develop superbly again next season, potentially becoming a sellable asset in the future.

Holding Midfielder // Henry Ochieng

• From Slough (Step 2) – Fee

Around all of these superb technical players, I feel that Ebbsfleet need a bit of grit and solidity at the base of midfield, to protect the three defenders at the back. The player I’ve suggested is exactly that…Henry Ochieng has been one of the most underrated holding midfielders in the division in recent seasons, often displaying great tenacity, tough tackling alongside a clever reading of the game. In Slough’s recent retained list, Ochieng was listed as “retained”, meaning The Fleet will have to tempt the former Leyton Orient youngster away, paying a fee to The Rebels.

In my opinion, this will be the most important position in the entire team, due to the responsibilities of protecting the back three, whilst being expected to stay very disciplined in-terms of positioning. The 26 year-old midfielder reads the game superbly, constantly making key tackles and interceptions in midfield. Ochieng thrives in games where he has to battle hard and win duels. His strength and power allow him to keep the ball through some tough tackles.

In possession, Ochieng is comfortable when receiving the ball off of his defender, being able to turn and play forward. He is capable of playing progressive passes, through the opponents lines. His ball-carrying is certainly a strength to his game, despite looking unorthodox when driving forward, he covers ground quickly, driving with power and strength.

He would be the starting holding midfielder in my squad, with Ebbsfleet academy graduate, Maxx Manktelow acting as a backup to Ochieng, potentially gaining valuable experience off of the bench. The former Chelmsford midfielder has plenty of experience in The National League South, which will be valuable to this team, trying to gain promotion back to The National League.

Advanced Midfielder // Jack Wood

• From Southend (Step 1) – Free

Just in-front of Henry Ochieng, I think Ebsfleet are likely to play with two advanced midfielders. These two players are the key creators in the side, tasked in getting on the ball to play progressive, line-breaking passes. They will also have a key role to support the forwards, becoming the third and fourth runners into the penalty area. The Fleet recently announced that star player, George Moncur, is staying at the club for their promotion push next season, but I think they still need two more in this vital position. The first of these two is 22 year-old, Southend United midfielder, Jack Wood.

Since joining The Shrimpers, from King’s Langley, back in the Summer of 2021, Jack Wood has been in-and-out of Kevin Maher’s squads, especially this season, where he’s played just ten times in The National League, spending most of the season in Step Two at Torquay United and Tonbridge Angels. In that time, he’s proven that The National League South is more-so his level, meaning a consistent season with a team near the top, could be vital for Wood’s career.

As I stated earlier in the blog piece; I believe that Toby Edser will likely leave the club this Summer, to stay in The National League, meaning whoever joins will have some big boots to fill. Jack Wood will bring excellent energy to The Fleet’s midfield, alongside his wonderful technical attributes, which allows him to glide past defenders with a real elegance and purpose. He thrives in pockets of space in between the oppositions midfield and defence, where he can pick up the ball in tight spaces, finding clever passes into his forwards.

I believe he’d be an excellent starting midfielder, creating a wonderful parternship alongside the experience and quality of George Moncur. Wood’s creativity and quality in possession will be key attributes for The Fleet; I could see him comfortably reaching double figures for goal contributions in this side.

Advanced Midfielder // Johl Powell

• From Walton & Hersham (Step 3) – Fee

For the second advanced midfielder, I’d like to see Ebbsfleet United sign a bit of a project player, who will be a backup to George Moncur and Jack Wood. For those readers who follow me on Twitter, Johl Powell, of Walton & Hersham, is a player who I have spoken about in detail in recent weeks, since I watched the 23 year-old dynamic midfielder play at Taunton Town. I believe he could make the step up into The National League South and Full-Time football, after an excellent season at Walton, including eleven goals from midfield.

Johl Powell has proven his technical abilities with some wonderful performances throughout the season, displaying superb technical attributes. The way Powell steps onto the ball in-stride, allowing him drive at defences with control, pace and power. He’s so light on his feet, making himself impossible to defend. Powell is never afraid to take a risk in possession, often willing to try line-breaking passes in behind, giving forwards something to run onto.

His physical and defensive attributes need to improve, but that will come when playing minutes in an extremely physically challenging league, which the National League South is. The former Millwall and Charlton Athletic youngster sometimes finds himself lacking in concentration at the vital moments when defending, leading to him losing his man. What he lacks out of possession, he certainly makes up for with his technical attributes.

The positive about Powell being a backup to Jack Wood and George Moncur, is that he doesn’t have pressure piled on him to perform week-in-week-out. He can gradually get used to the intensity, physicality and pace of The National League South over a period of games.

Athletic Forward // George Nikaj

• From Dover Athletic (Step 3) – Fee

As we head into the closing stages of the Recruitment Document, we are down to our final position and player. In my prediction of The Fleet’s retained list, I suggested that I think Kymani Thomas and Aaron Cosgrave will likely stick around for next season, meaning Josh Wright will be looking for atleast one forward in the Transfer Market. I think Ebbsfleet need a physically dominant, athletic forward, to give their frontline the final attributes needed to become complete. The player I’ve gone for is Dover Athletic academy graduate, George Nikaj, who has scored 25 goals for the club in a superb Isthmian Premier Division season.

The 21 year-old forward has developed superbly this season, becoming the clubs top goalscorer throughout a wonderful campaign, that is still going for The Whites, who beat Billericay 2-1 in their Playoff Semi-Final! I believe that Nikaj can make the step into Full-Time football seamlessly, due to his excellent physical attributes as a Number Nine. Nikaj brings great strength, pace and power to a forward line, as well as being dominant in the air.

Technically, Nikaj is fantastically gifted as well; He can play on both feet, score all types of finishes, bring others into play and create chances for teammates as well. He strikes the ball wonderfully, meaning he’s pleasing on the eye. In an Ebbsfleet side who are likely to create plenty of chances next season, especially from wide areas with their free-flowing wingbacks.

I feel that George Nikaj will thrive at this level, in this Ebbsfleet United side; He’s hard-working and capable of starting the press from the front. If he continues to develop and scores 25/30 goals next season, Ebbsfleet will then have a large sell-on value involved as well; this deal just makes total sense for the club and George Nikaj as well.

So that’s it! My first Recruitment Document of the Summer is over and the above photo is what my final Ebbsfleet United squad looks like, with the retained players and my suggested signings.

How does this squad do in The National League South? What do you think of the players I suggested? Would you retain anyone else?

Thankyou for reading! I would appreciate any feedback or support on the blog, either commenting on this piece or through social media. I hope you enjoyed the

If you have any requested for blog pieces you’d like to see, make sure to comment on this post/blog or give me a message via Twitter.

With the Transfer Deadline (Thursday 27th March) rapidly heading our way for The Vanarama National League, we head into a busy period for all National League managers, who will be looking to fine-tune their sides, giving themselves the best chance of reaching their end of season targets, whether that be Promotion, Playoffs or Survival. Some clubs will only need one or two players to improve their squad, others may need four or five.

In this blog piece, I will be going through every club in Step One of The National League, naming one player that I think would be an excellent signing for that specific club. I have asked fans/ representatives at each club, to get an accurate guidance of what position each club will be looking to bolster in the closing month of the window.

I hope you all enjoy the read and I would love to hear the thoughts of fans. Do you agree with my suggestion for your club, or another club in the blog. Please share the blog around and give any feedback on the piece. Enjoy!

So, without further ado, let’s crack on with the piece…

AFC Fylde

Jack Stott – As mentioned, I will be going through each club in alphabetical order, making it much easier to find YOUR club throughout the piece. AFC Fylde is club number one and I spoke to Fylde and Non-League fan, Jack Connor (JSWC1995 on Twitter) who said that a central midfielder is vital if Fylde are to boost their chances of surviving in The National League.

With a double pivot pairing of either Joe Riley and Will Hugill, or Joe Riley and Ethan Mitchell, another body is probably needed in that area, who can challenge Mitchell and Hugill for a starting position in that progressive, creative midfield role. With the role that Fylde’s star player, Nick Haughton, taking up the role of an advanced midfielder, finding pockets of space in between the oppositions midfield and defence, the key role of a new addition would be to dictate play in a deeper area, having the ability to play passes into the pockets which Haughton picks up, or distribute the ball into wide areas. They also need to be willing to box-crash the opponents penalty area, delivering a serious threat from central, attacking areas.

The player I’ve chosen; Jack Stott of Middlesbrough. The versatile midfielder has become a regular for Boro’s U21s sides in the PL2, National League Cup and the International Cup fixtures this season but spending the last couple months on loan in The National League could be excellent for the 21 year-olds long-term development. Stott does have a small level of experience in The National League, where he spent a period of last season at both York City and Gateshead. In his eight games at Gateshead he proved his ability to pass the ball and dictate play from deep areas.

Stott would add real quality and depth to Fylde’s midfield, giving them different attributes and a fantastic level of composure. The addition of Jack Stott would certainly boost The Coasters hopes of survival, along with a new manager, after the sacking of Kevin Phillips.

Aldershot Town

George Nikaj – Moving onto club number two in The National League Premier; another team who are desperate to survive the drop and keep their status as a Step One Non-League side. The Shots have had an extremely disappointing season for various reasons – I hope Tommy Widdrington is recovering well and hope to see him back out on the touchline soon. If Aldershot are to comfortably secure safety this season, and begin to build for next season, an exciting, hungry goalscorer is certainly a MUST.

The Shots have displayed a willingness to recruit from the lower leagues of Non-League in recent seasons, which has led to great success and a healthy level of income for the club. An example of this would be Josh Stokes, signed by Aldershot from Sudbury in the Summer of 2023. After an excellent season, he was signed by Bristol City for a large six-figure-fee.

The player that I feel would improve Aldershot massively, not only this season, but next season, is Dover Athletic forward, George Nikaj. The 21 year-old striker has scored 21 times for The Whites in the Isthmian Premier League this season. Nikaj is a prolific, mobile forward of good size and physical capabilities who would make an excellent trio alongside Jack Bareham and Josh Barrett. A player who works extremely hard and brings his teammates into the game whilst showing fantastic decision-making in the final third. He has a widespread of technical and physical attributes which tell me he will have a top career as an EFL footballer.

Nikaj is a player that I’m sure will watched by many sides in the final months of the 2024/25 season from the EFL and National League. I’d like to think Aldershot is a club that would be attractive for the 21 year-old and they could potentially take advantage of the EFL transfer window being closed, by making a move on the well-rounded forward, before the end of the season.

Altrincham

Elliott Reeves – The third club on the list is probably the first side I’ve mentioned to be having a positive season in The National League. Altrincham currently sit just inside the playoffs at the time of writing, with 52 points after 32 games. Phil Parkinson has been at the club for almost eight years now, building an excellent, attacking side, looking to reach the playoffs for a second year running. Alty finished fourth last year, massively impressing throughout.

They started the 2024/25 season a bit disappointingly but the resurgence of Alex Newby and Regan Linney has given Alty that much needed spark to climb up into the playoff places. The two of them have a combined total of 45 goals contributions in The National League this season. What a duo! Despite all the good work those two do, Alty haven’t really got a proper Number Nine who can score goals consistently, alongside Linney and Newby.

Both Jake Bickerstaff, on loan from Wrexham, and Joe Nuttall, on loan from Oldham, have been fairly disappointing since joining, according to some Altrincham fans. However, they have both only played a handful of games so should be given time. I was requested to suggest a “proper striker” so the suggestion I’ve gone with is Flint Town forward, Elliott Reeves.

The 28 year-old forward has spent time in England before at Margate, Alfreton and Mickleover but has really thrived and pushed on since making the move to Wales. Reeves is having a brilliant season for Flint, scoring six goals in sixteen games in the Cymru Premier. I think he’d work really well alongside Newby and Linney, creating a really dangerous attacking trio.

Barnet

Danny Cashman – From two sides in Fylde and Aldershot who are desperate to stay in the league, past Altrincham, who will be hoping to keep their place in the playoffs, to our next side; The National League table-toppers, Barnet. The Bees have had an excellent season under Dean Brennan and currently sit six points clear of second placed York. Barnet’s successes this season have come thanks to Brennan’s exciting, attacking style of play, which utilises the creative players within the side.

The request I received from Barnet fan, James Harpin (james_harpin on Twitter) was to try and find a player who can replace the loss of Bailey Hobson, an attacking midfielder who spent a short spell on loan at the club earlier on this season, from Chesterfield. Hobson looked likely to return to The Bees, on loan, for the remainder of the season but, as reported by Liam Norcliffe, a deal fell through.

Hobson was superb in a short stint at Barnet, showing his excellent technical attributes. The replacement would ideally be someone fairly similar to Hobson, in terms of position and style. Barnet have shown a desire to recruit from The National League South in the past, I feel they could find some serious value by recruiting one of the leagues best players; Danny Cashman, from Worthing. A deal that could be fairly difficult to make happen at this stage of the season, especially with Worthing making a push for the title, however, if any team can persuade Cashman, it’s probably Barnet, at the top of the National League.

As previously mentioned, Cashman is rated as one of the best players in The National League South, due to his excellent qualities on the ball and impact in the penalty area with his goals and assists. He’s an extremely creative technician, like many in the current Barnet squad, so would fit right in. Cashman is a player who always works extremely hard, a quality that is right at the top of Dean Brennan’s list. This would be a superb signing for Barnet, not only for the remainder of this season, but next season as well.

Boston United

Josiah Dyer – From The National League table-toppers, down to a side whose chances of survival are becoming thinner and thinner as the game weeks pass. Boston United have had a frustrating season in Step One, they have a fairly good defensive record, conceding just 48 times from their opening 30 games. That sort of record would have The Pilgrims sat in the lower-mid table area of the league.

The problems for Boston have arisen in the attacking areas of the pitch, scoring just 27 times in the league at the time of writing. A third of their goals have come from centre forward Jacob Hazel who is having a good season in-front of goal, especially considering the lack of chances United create. I spoke to Boston fan Tyler (bufcbrennan on Twitter) who said that The Pilgrims are in desperate need of another centre forward to support Hazel.

With Jacob Hazel being more of a box-striker and goalscorer, I feel that Boston need a player who is willing to work hard, run the channels and bring some good physical attributes to Ian Culverhouse’s forward line. My suggestion; Josiah Dyer, would give The Pilgrims pace and strength in abundance, alongside the natural finishing ability of Hazel. Dyer is a player who is extremely highly rated at Barnsley, recently making his League One debut in the final few minutes of The Tykes Yorkshire Derby match against Huddersfield Town.

This move would be a positive one for all parties involved. Barnsley would be sending one of their brightest youngsters out on loan for valuable first team minutes in an extremely competitive league. It would add real quality to Boston’s attacking unit, giving them a different profile of forward, compared to Jacob Hazel.

Braintree Town

Euan Williams – The next club is another one fighting for their lives at the bottom of The National League. Braintree have had an interesting season in their first season as a Step One side, spending lots of money on a large amount of players over the Summer but failing to move away from the relegation zone at any point. Similarly to Boston, The Irons have had a strong defensive record, conceding just 45 times in 33 matches. A lack of service for their attacking players has resulted in a struggle to score goals on a consistent basis.

Braintree’s double pivot of Matt Robinson and Marley Marshall is actually a fairly promising pairing. Robinson is more of the “destroyer” in midfield whereas Marshall can get on the ball and drive forward. One thing the midfield does lack is someone who can pass the ball with real purpose and quality. Adding a third body into the midfield unit is a necessity if The Iron are to give themselves the best chances of remaining in The National League.

It’s hardly a secret that Braintree spent well over their budget in the Summer of 2024, to give themselves the best chances of survival for the season. This means they are fairly limited in what they can bring in for the remainder of the season. When recruiting, Steve Pitt is likely to use the local loan market as a way to strengthen his squad. The play I’ve suggested; Euan Williams, is a player who will be desperate to get out and play football for the final months of the 2024/25 season. The 22 year-old midfielder has played just seven times for Gillingham this season, a side struggling towards the bottom end of League Two.

Williams is a player who would add a real composure and calmness to Braintree’s midfield, having someone who can receive the ball in difficult areas and dictate play from deep. He brings something to The Iron’s midfield which they previously lacked – An excellent quality on the ball, having a player who can play progressive passes and create chances for Braintree’s forward players. This is a signing that just makes complete sense for all involved.

Dagenham & Redbridge

Sonny Finch – Dagenham & Redbridge are a side who have come under lots of pressure in recent weeks/months for a run of extremely difficult, poor form and rumours that the club is becoming very toxic on the inside. Performances haven’t been up to the standards Dagenham fans would expect for quite a while now, having failed to win in their last nine National League matches. They’ve already been through a manager this season; former boss, Ben Strevens was sacked a couple of months ago, releasing a worrying statement about the board/ownership at the club.

The issues for The Daggers have arrived all over the pitch in recent months, with the main one being a lack of threat and conviction in the final third. Aaron Loupalo-Bi has been brought in, on loan from Fulham, and has looked fairly promising in the handful of games he’s played. It’s clear that Dagenham need another body in the forward area who can run the channels and add well-rounded technical and physical attributes in the final third.

Sonny Finch is a player I really like and was desperate to get him involved into a blog piece so I can talk about his qualities in the final third. His time in the Middlesbrough academy sides has been full of successes; playing for Boro’s PL2 sides as a sixteen year-old shows how highly rated he is in the North-East. He started this season by joining MK Dons on loan, sadly things didn’t work out for the 19 year-old forward, who went back to Boro after just six games in League Two, scoring once. A drop down to The National League could do him some good for the remainder of the season.

A technical wizard in the final third; he loves to get on the ball as a second-striker in the pockets of space, which allow him to linkup with a partner alongside him. His agility and balance allow him to create space for himself and his excellent ball control means he can manipulate the ball. I think a player with the quality of Sonny Finch could really push The Daggers on for a positive finish to a disappointing 2024/25 season.

Eastleigh

Kamarai Simon-Swyer – From a Dagenham side hurtling towards a relegation scrap, to an Eastleigh side who have been in fine form since the beginning of November, losing just four of their last nineteen games in The National League, currently sitting four points outside of the playoffs, with 13 games to play. The Spitfires have become a solid side in this league but still lack another versatile, creative attacker.

Eastleigh have been quite versatile with their formations in recent weeks/months, consistently chopping and change to fit players in. If they are going to continue to do this for the remainder of the 2024/25 campaign, a versatile playmaker who can fill-in in a number of these attacking areas would be vital. They’ll be looking for a player with good physical attributes like pace and agility, who can create things in tight spaces for teammates. Someone who can score goals as well as set them up, adding a real edge to The Spitfires attack.

Kamarai Simon-Swyer is the player I’ve gone for to fill this role, on a short-term basis for Eastleigh. The 22 year-old attacker has had a fantastic season for West Ham’s U21 side in PL2, scoring four, assisting three. He’s played in a wide-range of positions for The Irons during the season including striker, winger or as an advanced midfielder. His main duties have been to create chances for his teammates and give West Ham an out-ball when defending.

Simon- Swyer would be an excellent signing for Eastleigh because of his interesting physical attributes. He can keep the ball from opponents with his physical strength, agility and pace. His technical attributes are also extremely confident; he’s great in tight spaces and has a wonderful control on the ball. He’d certainly boost The Spitfires chances of the playoffs.

Ebbsfleet United

Danny Waldron – Next up on the blog you have to look right to the bottom of The National League table to find Ebbsfleet United, who have won just one game all season, picking up a shocking fourteen points in 34 games! It’s fair to say that The Fleet will be playing National League South football next season and are likely to rebuild the squad. To get ahead of other sides, they will probably look to start doing that in the remaining month of the Transfer Window.

It wouldn’t be a shock to anyone to hear that Ebbsfleet will need at least one player in every position, come the start of the 2025/26 season, however, when speaking to an Ebbsfleet fan (TheFleetZone on Twitter) they said that a striker is definitely needed before the end of the season. The Fleet haven’t been converting enough of the chances they are creating at the moment, so a parter to Aaron Cosgrave is the number one target.

With my suggestion; Danny Waldron, I feel it’s a player that The Fleet could bring in on loan for the remainder of this season, with a view to make it permanent in the Summer. Sadly, Waldron’s move from Rushall Olympic to Southend has been one of great disappointment for the 28 year-old forward, who has scored just three goals in over 25 appearances for The Shrimpers. In his time at Rushall he proved that he can be a clinical finisher. I think a change of scenery would do Waldron the world of good and can become the main man at Ebbsfleet.

Sometimes things just don’t work out for certain players, and that’s exactly what’s happened for Waldron in Essex. If he could end the National League season on a positive note, before absolutely smashing it in The National League South, with Ebbsfleet, it could be an excellent move for a player who’s in his prime years.

FC Halifax Town

Cameron Gardner – Club Number Ten is up next; Chris Millington’s Halifax continue to stand inside the playoffs, after another solid season in The National League. The Shaymen are one of the strongest sides in the league, away from home, losing just three times in seventeen matches on the road. The home form is certainly a problem for Millington, which has led to a worrying drop in attendances. The pitch certainly hasn’t helped things; it seems like most of their home games are called off when the slightest bit of rain drops. My biggest suggestion for Halifax would be a new pitch.

Anyway, that’s hardly a job for the recruitment team at The Shay, so I should probably talk about what this whole blog piece is about… players! I spoke to Halifax fan, Luke Walsh (LukeWalshFCHT on Twitter) who requested me to look for a replacement for former winger, Andrew Oluwabori, who signed for League One side, Exeter City, in January. They’ll be looking to recruit a brilliant runner, who can get on the ball in wide areas and cause opposition defenders serious issues.

I think Halifax are likely to look for a short-term, loan signing until the remainder of the season, before looking to sign a permanent replacement to Oluwabori in the Summer. Cameron Gardner, of Grimsby Town, is the play I’m suggesting for The Shaymen; the 19 year-old winger came through The Mariners academy and has began to break through this season. There is definitely a chance that Gardner could leave on loan, for the remainder of the season, to gain some vital senior experience in a playoff battle.

Gardner is a player who loves to be on the ball, in one-on-one situations against opposition defenders, using his excellent turn of pace, wonderful agility and ball control to excite the fans. He needs to work on his end product but the same could be said for Andrew Oluwabori. This would be a fantastic short-term signing for Halifax and it should help Gardner’s long-term development at Grimsby.

Forest Green Rovers

Lewis Payne – From a side battling for The National League Playoff places, in Halifax Town, to a side, in Forest Green, who will be hoping for a late winning run to push themselves into a title race for the final few games. Forest Green have had a superb first season back in Non-League, recruiting with quality over quantity throughout the campaign, sitting in third place, on 67 points. They are currently three points off of York, in second, and nine points off of Barnet, who sit top. Rovers certainly haven’t set the world alight with their performances throughout this season but one thing you can’t deny is Steve Cotterill’s ability to make a side grind out results.

Forest Green have been the best defensive side in the division this season, conceding just 26 goals in 34 games, keeping an impressive twelve clean sheets in that time. However, with Sean Long struggling to complete full 90 minutes matches this season, Rovers are in desperate need of another right back, for the remainder of the season. They have currently been utilising central midfielder, Emmanuel Osadebe as a right wingback.

My suggestion, Lewis Payne, may be a slightly controversial one, as the 20 year-old, Southampton academy player, spent the first half of this season on loan at Rovers’ Gloucestershire rivals, Cheltenham. Payne played seventeen times for Michael Flynn’s side, assisting twice. I’m shocked he didn’t go out on loan at another League Two side in January, however, a National League promotion could be an attractive prospect and fantastic experience for the former Newport and Eastleigh loanee.

Payne would bring a fantastic level of versatility down the right hand side of Cotterill’s defence, having the ability to play as a right-sided central defender, right back, or even higher as a right wingback. He’s got an excellent recovery pace, allowing him to get forward, knowing he’ll be in position when out of possession. He carries a serious threat going forward, as shown in his short spell at Cheltenham, where he created an impressive thirteen chances in seventeen games. This would be an excellent short-term signing for Rovers.

Gateshead

Isaac Fletcher – As we reach the halfway stage of the blog piece, club twelve is Gateshead; The most Northern team in The National League, which always plays a part in recruitment. The Heed are having another strong season in The National League, sorting out their ground issues, so they can compete in this seasons Playoff games. Carl Magnay has replaced current Crawley Town boss, Rob Elliott, and is doing a fantastic job, keeping Gateshead in fourth place.

Gateshead play some superb, possession-based football; dominating most of their games by being on the ball. However, if Gateshead are to improve their chances of promotion, via the Playoffs this season, I think they still need a box-crashing midfielder, who can potentially play as one of the Number Ten’s behind their striker. Having a strong squad already, Gateshead only need to add real quality to give themselves the best chance of promotion, in what will be an extremely tough Playoff campaign.

I’ve gone for a player who has had an excellent season for many reasons; Isaac Fletcher, who had a fantastic first half of the 2024/25 campaign, at Spennymoor Town, in The National League North, scoring eleven goals in 24 games. In January, The 22 year-old earned an exciting move into The Football League, for League Two strugglers, Barrow. It seems as though he may be struggling with the step up, considering he’s played just twice for Barrow, accumulating just 87 minutes! A loan move, into The National League, could do him the world of good.

Fletcher is a really interesting, unique style of midfielder who loves to get into the penalty area, causing havoc for opposing defenders. He has the versatility to play as a wide midfielder, central midfielder or Number Ten, which could be useful for The Heed at this stage of the season. He’s a technical wizard who strikes the ball superbly, proven by his eleven goals this season. A player who may need to take a step back from The Football League this season, to find more game-time, which would certainly come at Gateshead.

Hartlepool United

Bobby Faulkner – From the most Northern club in The National League, to the second most Northern club in the division; Hartlepool United, who have had a fairly disappointing season, currently sitting in 12th place. Despite being on a poor run of form, with no win in their last five league fixtures, The Pools are still just eight points off of the playoffs, with eleven games to play. Anything’s possible!!!

I spoke to Hartlepool fan; Ellis (Ellishall_12 on Twitter), who said that United could do with a wide centre back, if they are to change to a back three. Their current centre back pairing of Tom Parkes and Luke Waterfall is strong but I think they may look to change to a back three, before the end of the 2024/25 season, meaning a left-sided defender is needed. The player I’ve suggested is currently on loan at Buxton. In The National League North, but could look for a step up into The National League, before the end of the season.

Bobby Faulker, on loan at Buxton, from Doncaster Rovers, has had a really good spell in The National League North, making for an excellent pairing, alongside Ethan Mann. The 19 year-old defender has displayed his impressive willingness to defender his penalty area, but also show a positive technical ability, which allows him to step into midfield and play progressive passes.

This would be an excellent addition for Hartlepool, short-term, with a potential view of extending the loan into next season, as Faulkner probably isn’t fully reading for first team football at Doncaster, especially if Rovers are promoted to League One. It would allow for Faulkner to develop even further, around a lot of strong characters and excellent defenders, such as those previously mentioned; Parkes and Waterfall.

Maidenhead United

Jerome Okimo – From two Manchester-based sides who are fighting for places in the playoffs, to a Maidenhead side, under Alan Devonshire, who are once again, dealing with the relegation scrap. For the first time in Devonshire’s long tenure, Maidenhead have a more technical squad, which is sort of hindering them in some ways, meaning they probably need a bit more experience in the side.

With teams around them such as Boston, Wealdstone and Fylde picking up important wins, it’s looking like Maidenhead could be coming under serious pressure in this late stage of The National League campaign. They need a couple of players who can bring real character, experience and fight to the squad. They have to build a strong core, adding their technical players around that, starting with a central defender.

My suggestion; Jerome Okimo is one of the most expensive National League players, still around. He’s played well over 300 matches at this level, fighting against relegation and also battling towards the top. He’s not going to do much on the pitch but as a short-term loan he’d be a superb player for The Magpies to have around the dressing room.

He’s struggled for minutes in what has been a superb Barnet back line this season, meaning he’s probably available to leave on loan without causing that much of an issue. A player like him, with that experience would be massive for Maidenhead, in their hopes for survival.

Oldham Athletic

Manni Norkett – Next up; Oldham Athletic, the only side to have played in the Premier League, to then be relegated into Non-League! No arguments that The Latics are the biggest club in the division, so their fan base has plenty of expectations, that aren’t really being met by Micky Mellon and co. Oldham are currently sat in fifth place in The National League, on 57 points, despite winning in any of their last five league games.

Somethings need to change at Oldham, whether it be the manager, recruitment, or anything in between. Latics fans have quite clearly stated their needs for another striker who can rotate, or play alongside Mike Fondop, for the remainder of the season. Fondop has had a fantastic season for Oldham, scoring some vital goals for them, but cannot do it all on his own, and needs some help. I think Mellon needs to recruit a player who has the physical capabilities to fight and battle in and around the penalty area, but also have the ability to run in behind and stretch the opposition defence.

Manni Norkett, of Nottingham Forest, would give them exactly that. His loan spell at Cheltenham, earlier on this season, taught us that he is a hard-worker who loves to get involved with the scrappy parts of the game. He is unproven in senior football but has displayed his excellent finishing ability for Forest’s U21s side in the PL2, this season.

His presence, alongside Mike Fondop, would give The Latics a really dangerous threat in the final third, having some younger, hungry legs, around all of the experience. He will be desperate to get back out, into senior football, after a disappointing loan, in League Two, with Michael Flynn’s Cheltenham. This would be a fantastic move for all parties!

Rochdale AFC

James Edmondson – From one club in Manchester, to another. Rochdale and Oldham are absolutely massive rivals; probably being one of the biggest derby’s in Non-League, so to have one after the other, feels quite tasty. Dale, similar to Oldham, are looking for a place in The National League playoffs this season, having earned 46 points after 30 games. Their home pitch has been a problem this season, hence why they have played four or five less than most of the league.

Rochdale have had a really positive season under McNulty, up until a few weeks ago where they have started to go a bit stale, struggling to get the sort of results they were in the first half of this season. With no win in their last 6 matches, at the time of writing, they will be looking to strengthen their side further, by adding some midfield competition, behind Ryan East and Harvey Gilmour.

Both Gilmour and East are more technical midfielders who lack a real aggression and tenacity, which is something the Dale midfield is massively lacking. I’ve gone for a player who loves to defend in midfield; James Edmondsun of Blackburn Rovers. He’s a physical presence who reads the game superbly and shows extremely impressive positional discipline, as a holding midfielder.

With the addition of Jay Bird to Dale’s forward line, I really don’t think they are far away from being in genuine contention of finishing in the Top Seven. The addition of a defensive midfielder, like James Edmondson, would strengthen Rochdale’s midfielder massively.

Solihull Moors

Josh Home – Next up in the blog; Solihull Moors, the worst form team in The National Leaue in the past nine games, losing eight, drawing once. The appointment of Matt Taylor was strange at the time but now it looks disastrous decision. Not only is his Moors side shipping goals, they are struggling to score them at the other end! It’s tough to see what will turn the form around.

I spoke to Moors fan, Callum Moseley (CallumTDUK on Twitter) who said that Solihull need a creative midfielder who can feed balls into the quality forwards that The Midlands side have at their disposal, such as Jack Stevens, Sonny Fish and Fletcher Holman. It’s not the most attractive place for players to want to play at the moment so a local loanee may have to be the option.

My local loan of choice is Birmingham City academy player, Josh Home; an excellent, technical midfielder who has an eye for a progressive pass. The 19 year-old midfielder has spent a short spell on loan at Gateshead this season but struggled to find minutes ahead of Regan Booty and other midfielders. I think he’d find minutes easier to come by at Solihull.

The Moors need that extra spark of energy in midfield, Home brings a physical side to his game, with excellent endurance as a box-to-box. His ability to cover lots of ground gives them a different type of midfielder to those already at the club. This is a signing I’d say is fairly realistic, with location playing a key part.

Southend United

Toby Edser – Southend United are next on the blog; The Shrimpers have had a frustrating season under Kevin Maher, starting really poorly in the first half of the season but improving in recent months. The Shrimpers are currently unbeaten in six matches, keeping the hopes of playoffs *slighly* alive. It’s probably unlikely, especially with Altrincham having two games in hand on the Essex-based side, however, good run towards the final few games of the season, could see them slip into that seventh spot.

Southend have utilised a 5-3-2 formation for large parts of this season, with one of the “3” playing further forwards, as a Number Ten. One thing the Shrimpers have lacked is a midfielder who can dictate the play and maintain possession, having the ability to play progressive passes into dangerous, positive areas. When speaking to Southend fans, this was the position which consistently came up.

Toby Edser is a player, in my eyes, who is perfectly made for the way Southend United player under Kevin Maher. He loves to get on the ball in deep areas and dictate play. His technical ability is too good to be playing in The National League South, with Ebbsfleet, so I’m sure he’ll stay in Step One. He’s taken on the role of captain at The Fleet, showing he has levels of leadership, important for Maher.

His qualities on the ball would add something different to those given by James Morton and Appiah-Forson. Technical attributes such as progressive passing and ball manipulation joint with his tactical understanding make for a superb, creative midfielder. He’s been a bright spark for The Fleet again this season and deserves to stay in The National League next season.

Sutton United

Brandon Barzey – Sutton United have had a strange first season back in The National League, following the clubs relegation from League Two in 2023/24. They’ve struggled to put any consistent run together to even challenge for that final Playoff spot. Their recruitment in the Summer made it feel as though they had a.two-year plan, signing a handful of young, talented players, allowing them to develop together, ready for the 2025/26 season.

Steve Morrison showed a tendency to recruit from The National League South, during the Summer of 2024, bringing in players such as Ed Vaz and Siju Odelusi, both from Aveley. One position that Sutton could look to improve this season, in plan for next season, is a winger. They need someone who is a physical powerhouse, excellent on the ball and a player who carries a serious goal threat.

I’ve used The National League South to look for a long-term winger at Sutton United and to be honest, it didn’t take very long! Brandon Barzey has been of the most electric players in Step Two this season, scoring ten times, assisting twice, in just 27 games! His dynamism and physical attributes have allowed him to become a nightmare for opposition fullbacks, every time he gets running.

He’d give them a real goal threat up front, alongside Will Davies and Josh Coley, something that is certainly needed if promotion is the end of season goal. With both Hemel and Sutton having little to play for, for the remaining games of the season, this is potentially a deal that could happen before the March deadline.

Tamworth

Lennon Wheeldon – With just five of the 24 National League clubs to go, we get to most people’s favourites to go down at the start of the season, therefore it’s most people’s (including mines) biggest overachievers; Tamworth! They’ve had another excellent season under Andy Peakes, reaching the third round of the FA Cup and earning survival in The National League.

Peakes has built a robust, hard-working side who love to battle, leaving everything out on the pitch. One thing that could be added, on a short-term basis, just to secure safety in The National League, would be a more technically gifted forward, alongside Tshikuna and Creaney, who are more physical powerhouses. This would add some real variety to The Lambs’ attack, for the final few games of the season.

The player I’m suggesting, Lennon Wheeldon, is someone who has had an excellent season for Derby County’s U21s side, scoring eight goals in sixteen for The Rams’ in all competitions. He’s brings many more technical qualities compared to Dan Creaney, who is more of a target man. Wheeldon would bring something different which could allow Peakes to vary his offensive style, giving them a different source of goals, for the remaining ten games of the season.

Wheeldon spent a tiny amount of time at Boston earlier on this season, but failed to make any real impact for The Pilgrims, who were going through an incredibly stale period, as they have all season. Gaining more senior experience will be an attractive proposition for Wheeldon and I’d imagine Derby would be willing to let him out on loan, especially to a local side in Tamworth.

Wealdstone

Osman Foyo – Club number twenty of the piece is a side who are desperate to keep their National League status, but sit jsut inside the relegation zone at the time of writing, with 35 points from 33 games. The Stones have had a frustrating season in which most of their wins have come in patches, meaning they’ve gone on disappointing runs of ten-plus games, without a win.

Despite Alex Reid, who has scored ten goals for The Stones, on loan from Oldham, this season, Wealdstone have really lacked another proper goal threat to rely on. They need someone with the ability to stretch an opponents defence, giving Reid lots of space, but also have the ability to make things happen and score when they have time in dangerous areas.

The player I’ve gone with lit The National League South up on in the first half of the season, on loan at Chelmsford, from Ipswich. However, in January, Osman Foyo made the permanent switch into League Two, with AFC Wimbledon. He’s only played two minutes for The Wombles since signing a few months ago. I think a National League side should take the chance to get Foyo in on loan.

The 20 year-old forward would bring great athleticism and energy to the Wealdstone attack, along with an excellent technical quality in tight spaces and in-front of goal. He scored eleven times for The Clarets, both signing for Wimbledon in January. It’s a signing that would benefit all involved, as it seems Foyo has struggled to adapt to life at Plough Lane.

Woking

Kyle Ajayi – Since Neal Ardley took over at Woking, The Cardinals have gone on an excellent run of form, losing just once in eleven league games and reaching an FA Trophy Semi-Final, with arch rivals, Aldershot to play for a place at Wembley. Ardley has built a structured side at Woking who are tough to beat but carry a threat going forwards with the likes of Matty Ward (now injured) and Inih Effiong.

Despite their robustness at the back, Woking fan, Samuel Collyer (Samuelcol1115 on Twitter) insisted on The Cardinals needing another central defender, potentially because of the injury to Jokubas Mazionis. A left-sided Central Defender would be ideal for Woking, giving them an excellent, powerful option on a long-term basis.

There weren’t meant better options I could have chosen than one of the most underrated Central Defenders in The National League South, than Hemel Hempstead man, Kyle Ajayi. The 23 year-old has been an absolute wall for The Tudors over the past couple of seasons, winning everything that’s comes his way. He’s such a powerful defender, with superb recovery speed, which would allow Woking to play a higher line.

This would give Woking a long-term solution to their central defensive issues, instead of having to rely on loans such as Mazianos and Max Dyche, earlier on in the campaign. Similarly to Brandon Barzey and Sutton, both Hemel and Woking aren’t playing for anything this season, meaning a deal could be done before the end of this season.

Yeovil Town

Harry Kite – The penultimate club of this blog piece is my beloved Yeovil Town! Since gaining promotion, back into The National League, at the first time of asking, it’s fair to say that feelings are very mixed between The Glovers fan base with the current management at the club. I, for one, am happy with our progress made, currently sitting in twelfth place, at the time of writing, on 46 points after 36 games.

Lots of mistakes have been made with recruitment this season, Mark Cooper referring to us not having enough “men” in our team when we’ve needed it most. With our currently injury issues, we are in need of “two to three” players before our match on the weekend, against Halifax Town. One position that Cooper may look to strengthen is in the midfield area. Charlie Cooper and Brett McGavin has been an excellent duo in their this season, but adding an extra body should help massively, for the remaining games of the season.

My suggestion is a player who has plenty of experience in the EFL, with Devon-based side Exeter City; Harry Kite, who has been a free agent since the end of the 2023/24 season. He, like many of Yeovil’s players this season, has had problems with injuries, but, if he kept fit, his experience and tenacity will be vital in our midfield.

I’m shocked that Kite is yet to be picked up since leaving Exeter at the end of the 2023/24 season but a drop into The National League could do him the world of good, even if it is for just ten games. His capabilities to be an excellent box-to-box midfielder would make him for an excellent replacement for former captain Matt Worthington, who left for Oldham Athletic, earlier this season.

York City

Harley Mills – After 7000 words on this blog piece, we come to the final club and player in The National League; Title chasers? Playoff favourites? York City. With York dropping vital points in recent weeks and Barnet continuing to dominate their games, it looks as though The Bees could lift the National League title. Adam Hinshelwood has created an excellent side for City this season, who would surely be favourites in The roulette that is the Playoffs?

York probably have the best squad in The National League, with a stacked squad all over the pitch. It was certainly tough for York fans to pick a position that needed improving, however, they seemed to believe that another left back is needed alongside Adam Crookes. This is likely to be a short-term loan, with the aim to make a permanent signing in the Summer.

My suggestion; Harley Mills of Peterborough United. The young fullback spent the first half of this season, on loan in The National League South, at Enfield Town, where he proved his quality. He has since gone back to Posh and began to breakthrough into their first team squad. Mills is yet to prove himself to be capable in League One, so a step down into a National League promotion battle, could be a vital experience in his development.

York seem to have a fairly good relationship with Peterborough, after the loan signing of David Ajiboye, earlier in the season. Mills would be the next in line and an excellent short-term signing, if City could get it over the line. It would give The Minstermen the perfect squad to enter the Playoffs with.

Thankyou!

Thankyou for reading! I would appreciate any feedback or support on the blog, either commenting on this piece or through social media. I hope you enjoyed the read.

What did you think of my suggestion for your club, or any other club in The National League? Who would be your dream signing for your club? Will my suggestion help your club reach its season targets?

If you have requests for pieces you’d like to see me do, drop them in the comments.

Since Maidstone United lost both Jon Benton and Antony Papadopoulos to Boreham Wood and a recall by Crawley Town retrospectively, The Stones have clearly lacked a pure, quality, creative midfielder in the middle of the park.

George Elokobi’s superb Maidstone side have played their share in an enthralling first half of The National League South campaign, with Dorking Wanderers leading the way on 56 points, with four teams sat on 55 points behind them, including The Stones. It’s certainly up in the air about who will win the league, a brilliant midfield addition could massively help United.

Maidstone usually lineup in a 4-3-3 formation, using two double-pivots in midfield, having a free-roam midfielder just ahead who can create chances and bring a serious goal threat to The Stones lineup. This system has thrived utilising both Benton and Papadopolous this season but Baylin Johnson, on loan from Cardiff, has struggled to make an impact so far.

For that reason, I was requested to suggest 3 options that George Elokobi and the Maidstone United recruitment team could look to sign as a creative midfielder.

I hope you all enjoy the read and I would love to hear the thoughts of Maidstone fans. Do you agree with my 3 midfield suggestions. Please share the blog around and give any feedback on the piece. Enjoy!

Sonny Blu-Lo Everton

With Maidstone United being one of just a handful of full time sides in The National League South, their budget is one of the biggest in the division. This means they have much more room in the playing budget for wages and fees. Players will find full time clubs an attractive prospect because they will train on a full-time schedule instead of having to fit in around work.

My first suggestion is for a player who I feel could be a perfect fit for Maidstone United. Someone who will be desperate to get back playing games of football week-in-week-out, especially since his return from injury. Sonny Blu-Lo Everton seems to have fallen out of favour at Yeovil Town this season, appearing just 14 times, starting on four occasions!

The former Watford and Derby County academy player spent time on loan at Wealdstone and current club Yeovil before signing for The Glovers on a permanent transfer. The 22 year-old midfielders contract is up in the Summer and is likely to leave. I feel that Maidstone have the chance to sign him on loan, with a view of a permanent in the Summer.

Despite Sonny playing his football in the South West currently, for Yeovil, he was born in London and spent his academy years at Watford as well as spending time on loan at Wealdstone, so knows the South East fairly well. He is likely to have family living fairly local to Maidstone which makes the settling in period much easier. George Elokobi is an excellent man-manager and will be the best person to get Sonny playing his best football.

Sonny Blu-Lo Everton is a brilliant technical midfielder who loves to be on the ball as much as possible. Plays the simple passes excellently and has an eye for a forward pass as well. When running with the ball he carries it superbly, gliding past defenders with his low centre of gravity and agility.

This isn’t a signing I’m suggesting Maidstone to make, it’s a signing I’m urging them to make. A player who is technically too good for The National League South, who needs an arm round his shoulder and consistent game-time. With a run of games, I see no reason why he can’t be one of the better midfielders in the league.

Olly Box

When I was doing the research part of this blog, which usually takes a fair bit of time, I had Olly Box’s name down extremely early because of his superb quality and energy in the Dartford midfield. The 19 year-old Darts academy graduate had an opportunity to sign for West Ham United in the Summer, but turned it down in favour of first-team football. This makes me think he will try and build his career through the divisions.

Despite The Darts being at the top of table in Step Three so far, Maidstone United would certainly be an attractive proposition for Olly Box and the most logical step for his career. United have a strong chance of being in The National League next season and could offer Box full-time football. With Maidstone being local to Dartford, he wouldn’t have to relocate either. The Stones have a young, hungry squad who are willing to fight for each other through any circumstances. Olly Box holds similar personality traits as this, so fitting in could be done seamlessly.

As I previously mentioned, Olly Box turned down the chance to sign for Premier League side, West Ham United, in returns for guaranteed game-time in senior football. It shows a true willingness and character to develop and improve by playing against people who are much more physically and mentally developed than him. A player who, in my opinion, is destined to play EFL football, but seems to be going about it the correct way, working through the lower leagues.

Box is a hard-working, creative midfielder who loves to get stuck into the dirty work, as well as his magic touch. He’s a player with a wonderful ability to pick out a risk-taking, line splitting pass, displaying serious levels of confidence and class, well above his level – something I have to admire for someone of his young age. When on the ball, he is willing to take on his man, displaying his unpredictable movements on the ball.

He’s certainly a player that will be on the radar of many clubs in different leagues throughout English Football in the Summer. Could The Stones potentially nick in before the Transfer Window reopens?

Kai Yearn

When researching for this blog piece, I wanted to try and find three players who have had fairly different career paths up to now, to try and cover all areas that The Stones may look to recruit from. Similar to Sonny Blu-Lo Everton, Coventry City youth player, Kai Yearn, is someone in need of game-time in senior football, to further develop himself as a player.

Sonny has played over 100 games in senior football now, in contrast, Kai Yearn has played a handful of games for Chelmsford City and Kings Lynn but has spent most of his early years playing for Cambridge United youth teams. The 19 year-old attacking midfielder signed for Coventry City in the Summer of 2024, and has since played nine times for their U21s squad, scoring five times.

He’s a player with an extremely exciting future in English Football because of his energetic, all-action style which allows him to display the best of his lovely technical attributes. Such a free-flowing ball-carrier who loves to take on his man with quick feet and bits of flair/skill. He’s yet to prove himself in senior football, hence why I think Coventry should send him to highflying Maidstone, to gain some valuable experience. He’s come a long way physically since his spells at Chelmsford and Kings Lynn but a lot of development is still needed.

Kai Yearn is a player who would take up a role slightly different to that of Sonny Blu-Lo Everton and Olly Box. He’s more of a Number Ten than an advanced midfielder so is likely to play further forward, almost as a second striker. This role could suit The Stones, as it allows them to push more bodies forward, into the final third.

Very unproven, with only a handful of games at this level but is a player who has proven his worth in youth teams. It’s about time Kai Yearn was given a good spell out on loan, gaining some valuable senior experience in a side where he doesn’t have to take much pressure or responsibility.

Thankyou!

Thankyou for reading! I would appreciate any feedback or support on the blog, either commenting on this piece or through social media. I hope you enjoyed the read.

Who would you sign if you were Maidstone? What do you think of my three suggestions?

If you have requests for pieces you’d like to see me do, drop them in the comments.

As the January Transfer Window deadline rolls into view, clubs up and down the country are looking to make their final bits of business before the window slams shut on Monday the 3rd of January. For Colchester, a fairly successful window, for incomings, will want to be improved further, with the additions of one or two more.

So far in January, The U’s have added; centre forward, Tyreece Simpson, on loan from Stevenage, defender Jack Turner, on loan from MK Dons and finally, Michael Forbes, a central defender, on loan from West Ham United.

After speaking to a Colchester fan, it was made fairly clear to me that the Cowley’s are likely to be after a central midfielder, who can play as a Number Eight, in the closing days of the Transfer Window. With murmurs that 25 year-old squad player, Arthur Read, could be off, in search for more game-time, another body in there could really help United.

The Cowley’s usually set Colchester up into a 4-2-3-1 formation, utilising a double pivot of Jamie McDonnell and Teddy Bishop, with attacking midfielder, Jack Payne, being used as the creative spark for Colchester. A squad player to play any of these three positions would be vital for United, to give them the quality and depth for the latter stages of this League Two campaign.

I hope you all enjoy the read and I would love to hear the thoughts of Colchester fans. Do you agree with my 3 midfield suggestions. Please share the blog around and give any feedback on the piece. Enjoy!

Toby Edser

I think it’s likely that Colchester will look to recruit a player who will be a useful squad player across all three midfield roles in Cowley’s 4-2-3-1 formation. Toby Edser is a rare star in an extremely poor Ebbsfleet United side, who sit bottom of The National League.

The 25 year-old would be a brilliant utility player for the Cowley’s because of his ability to play a number of roles across the midfield, displaying his versatility and well-rounded attributes technically, physically and tactical understanding.

Colchester have shown a desire to recruit in an area which is fairly local to, or within Essex in recent seasons. The distance between Ebbsfleet and Colchester is just over fifty miles, meaning he is probably a player The U’s have looked at in the past. I feel that Colchester should be looking to recruit from non-league, as they rarely do this.

As shown below, The Fleet’s captain covers plenty of ground throughout a game, whether that be playing as a Six, Eight, Ten or even as a wide midfielder, where he has played at times this season. This is the sort of physical endurance which is much appreciated but the Cowley’s who like to build a squad of players who work extremely hard and leave everything out on the pitch.

Toby Edser is a player of superb technical qualities, probably deserving a move away from a very disappointing Ebbsfleet United side, who are due to play in The National League South again next season, a level that Edser has proven too good for already. An ability to dictate a game, despite his side having very little of the ball. A player who can pass the ball extremely well, so far having a success rate of 83% in The National League, this season.

Despite this, Edser has developed his game a lot in the past two seasons, becoming more of a leader within the Ebbsfleet squad. He has all of the attributes to fit into the Colchester squad perfectly, especially under the Cowley’s. A brilliant, technical player who works extremely hard for his team.

Anthony Papadopoulos

My second suggestion of the blog comes from another player who has thrived in The National League South over the past three seasons, at both Welling United and Maidstone, for the first half of this season. The 22 year-old midfielder signed for Crawley Town, of League One, in the Summer of 2024, after a fantastic two seasons at Welling.

The former Leyton Orient academy graduate is best as a creative Number Eight, where he can get on the ball in deep areas and carry or pass progressively forward. A player who would suit the style under the Cowley’s perfectly because of his composure and quality in the midfield.

Similarly to my Toby Edser suggestion, I have again gone with a player *fairly* local to Colchester. With Crawley being 80 miles from the North Essex-based side, I’d call that local. It helps a player settle in much smoother and keeps them aware of their surrounding areas.

It’s fairly clear that Papadopoulos isn’t quite League One quality yet, hence why he spent a few months on loan in The National League South with highflying Maidstone United. The loan went extremely well for all parties, Anthony Papadopoulos scored six times in eighteen appearances for The Stones, helping the side on an impressive unbeaten run. His superb creativity and technical ability was on full display on a consistent basis.

I’d like to see Anthony Papadopoulos given another loan for the remainder of the 2024/25 season, either in League Two or The National League. If he stays at Crawley his development would be hindered massively, game-time is a must for the 22 year-old. I can’t think of many places better for him to go. Being coached by Danny and Nicky Cowley will do his development the world of good, even if he isn’t playing every week. He will have to fight for his place in the side.

His hard-working mentality mixed with sublime technical attributes would bring real strength in depth to the U’s midfield, for the reminder of the 2024/25 season. When called upon, he is able to pick out a pass of any range, carry the ball forward and cover every blade of grass. He also carries a goal threat, shown from his short spell at Maidstone.

Cameron Bragg

In recent seasons, Colchester have looked to use the youth market to improve their squad, signing players from Premier League Two. That’s the same route as I’ve gone down for my third and final suggestion, another player who has spent time at Crawley, Southampton youth player, Cameron Bragg.

The 19 year-old midfielder played six times for League One strugglers, Crawley Town, throughout the month of September, before finding it difficult to get into the team. I’d like to see the Southampton youth academy graduate sent back out on loan, in League Two, where he can find more consistent senior minutes.

In terms of style, Cameron Bragg, similarly to both Toby Edser and Antony Papadopoulos, loves to be on the ball, keeping play ticking over with his fantastic ability to pass the ball, as shown by his short spell at Crawley, where he had a passing success rate of 91%. His ability to play progressive passes through the lines, mainly in the Southampton youth sides, is something I’d love to see on a more consistent basis from Bragg.

Similarly to Papadopoulos, Cameron Bragg probably isn’t at the level of League One football, week-in-week-out yet but the best way for him to develop and learn the game is to be playing consistent football. I think Bragg would be a superb addition to the Cowley’s midfield, allowing Bragg to fight for his place in a midfield of real quality throughout.

The way Bragg would fit into Colchester’s 4-2-3-1 formation is as the Number Eight, alongside Jamie Donley, in the double pivot. The 19 year-old has a tough task of moving Teddy Bishop but if legs get tired he’d be a superb option to come on. He’d match the energy and hunger of Jamie Donley perfectly.

I think this signing would benefit all parties because not only is Cameron Bragg developing himself in a competitive environment, Colchester are adding some real quality in depth to their midfield, whilst, from The Saints point of view, Bragg is with two fantastic coaches, getting minutes in a competitive league.

Thankyou!

Thankyou for reading! I would appreciate any feedback or support on the blog, either commenting on this piece or through social media. I hope you enjoyed the read.

Who would you sign if you were Colchester? What do you think of my three suggestions?

If you have requests for pieces you’d like to see me do, drop them in the comments.

The sixth tier of English Football has proven to be a league full of hidden diamonds in recent seasons, proving the value of EFL clubs to recruit from Non-League. In this blog piece I will be focusing on the National League South (Step 2 of Non-League), picking out ten players that I believe are too good for that level and deserve a step up into a higher league.

Whilst there is obviously so much talent in this league, I have limited myself to just ONE PLAYER PER TEAM to add some variety to the piece. I will definitely be coming back to this topic to complete a part Two and Three as well in the future, so don’t be disappointed if one of your players isn’t included.

Enjoy the read! Any feedback or support is massively appreciated and I’d love to hear the thoughts of fans who give this a read. Who would you pick that I haven’t? Any shares on the blog are greatly appreciated as well.

So let’s get into it…

Ben Brookes – Maidstone United

We begin this blog with someone who has become one of, if not THE BEST fullbacks in the second step of Non-League in the last two seasons, firstly at Chelmsford City, before joining Maidstone United, becoming Full-Time.

Brookes has taken his game to a new level since joining The Stones in the Summer of 2024. The former Hashtag United defender is on a wonderful rise through the lower leagues of English Football. The 23 year-old will continue that rise into the Football League within the next two-three seasons.

Despite his young age, Brookes has become a consistent performer for whoever he has played for, proving his robustness and ability to stay fit for prolonged periods of time. Within just two seasons, Brookes has racked up over seventy appearances in The National League South, 26 of them coming for his current side.

The fullback has proven is quality in the final third for George Elokobi’s side with an impressive two goals and eight assists in just 25 league games this season. His strength on both feet gives him an advantage in the attacking areas and makes him so difficult to defend because of being able to go both ways and deliver with quality on either foot.

Ben Brookes is a player on a rapid upward scale at the moment, a player that I thought make the step up to the National League in the previous Summer but his decision to stay in Step Two has proven to be an excellent decision. I’d say that Brookes has the technical, physical and tactical ability to make the big jump into the Football League in the Summer or 2025.

The 23 year-old certainly won’t be short of offers, even if Maidstone are promoted into The National League.

Leon Chambers-Parillon – Slough

For the next player of this blog, I’ve gone with one of the more unrecognised names of my list, but still a player who’s had a fantastic season in the National League South in a side who started superbly but have really struggled to find any consistent run of form as of late

Unfortunately, Slough have had a fairly disappointing last few months in The National League South, failing to win in their last seven league games. In contrast, the start of The Rebels 2024/25 campaign was a successful one. Scott Davies’ side won five of their first six games!

Despite the inconsistent, strange form from this Slough Town side this season, one excellent consistency throughout has been the bright emergence of the 23 year-old box-to-box midfielder, Leon Chambers-Parillon, who has scored five goals and assisted once in just 25 appearances this season in Step 3, Scott Davies took the risk on Chambers-Parillon at the beginning of the 2023/24 season.

Over the last six-twelve months, Chambers-Parillon has become one of the most exciting, young midfielders in the league. He’s such a dynamic athlete, allowing him to cover so much ground. He’s been nurtured fantastically by player/ manager, Scott Davies, who is also a midfielder.

I really like Leon Chambers-Parillon as a brilliant ball-carrying midfielder who loves to take the ball in deep areas before carrying it 20-30 yards forwards, taking opposition players out of the game. He’s a true box-to-box midfielder; Bags of energy to get up and down. Arrives late in the penalty area as a box-crasher and he helps out defensively with his excellent defensive discipline as well.

I think a side in the National League, like Woking, could massively do with his levels of athleticism and energy in their midfield. He’s technically good enough to play in Step One, which mixes perfectly with his physical attributes, to make a really complete, powerful midfielder.

George Alexander – Eastbourne

The first centre forward of the blog comes from one of the most exciting projects in the National League South. Eastbourne have such a dynamic, young side plying their trade towards the top of the table, playing entertaining, attacking football.

In recent seasons, Alexander has proved his quality at Step 2 for multiple different clubs. The 24 year-old striker scored goals at Welling, Slough, Chelmsford and current Eastbourne, where he has scored eleven goals in just 25 games at the beginning of the 2024/25 season.

He tried his luck at Bromley in the National League but really struggled to get a consistent run of games for The Ravens, playing just 38 times for the club across a three-year spell, scoring six times. The former Millwall academy striker is a good link-up forward as well. He’s got a good control of the ball

Despite this, I feel that Alexander would be a success in The National League Premier, if he was at the right club, because of excellent physical profile and his superb composure in front of goal. The former Millwall academy striker is also an excellent link-up forward. He’s good with ball at his feet, holds it up excellently and he can pick out a pass.

As I mentioned, I’d like to see George Alexander make the step up to The National League to see how he does. A club who create plenty of chances would suit him superbly.

Kyle Ajayi – Hemel Hempstead

From attack to defence: Defensive powerhouse, Kyle Ajayi, of Hemel Hempstead, is the next player on the list. The central defender has become one of the most underrated players in The National League South in recent seasons, becoming a consistent excellence in the Hemel back line.

Similar to Slough, Hemel have had a fairly strange first half of their National League South campaign. The Tudors were unbeaten for their opening nine games of the 2024/25 season, looking like they were going to become an impressive force under Bobby Wilkinson. Form then dipped dramatically as the club failed to win any of their next 13 league games, including a 7-1 loss to Dorking and a 5-0 loss to Salisbury. Things have improved again recently as Lee Allison has come in as the new manager.

Despite The Tudors’ defensive frailties this season, Kyle Ajayi has been a consistent rock in the backline, showing his leadership at such a young age. The 24 year-old should be on the watch of many clubs in The National League because of his excellent physical profile and brilliant defensive mentality. He’s so dominant in both aerial and ground duels, winning most of the ones challenges he contests. His pace allows him to stay in a high line when defending, meaning he can get back in efficiently when needed.

Very little is able to get past the former AFC Dunstable defender because he reads the game so well and times his tackles and challenges to perfection. His ball-playing ability is nothing special but it’s certainly not a weakness to Ajayi’s overall game.

I think he’d be the perfect central defender for a National League side because of how well-rounded his game is. He’s a threat from set pieces and defends his own penalty area like it means the world.

Danny Cashman – Worthing

As we reach the halfway stage, I have come to one of my favourite players in The National League South, Danny Cashman, who plays for Worthing; The most exciting, entertaining team in the division. What a combination to talk about!

Worthing have had an unbelievable first half of The National League South campaign, under Chris Agutter, who has his side sat in 3rd place, joint top. The Rebels are sat on 52 points, joint with Boreham Wood, Torquay United and Eastbourne. A key reason for their success is because of how exciting they are in the final third, displaying their creativity and free-flowing football in abundance.

As previously mentioned, Agutter’s side is full of creative gems, one of them goes by the name of Danny Cashman. The 24 year-old, former Brighton and Coventry midfielder has 10 goals and 6 assists in just 27 appearances for The Rebels this season.

He has mainly played as a wide midfielder/winger for Worthing this season but I’d say that Cashman’s strongest position is probably as an attacking midfielder, where he can see as much of the ball as possible

He is a wonderful, creative player who loves to have the ball at his feet. His passing is superb; Can pick out a long pass. Plays through the lines excellently and has great vision to spot runners in behind. When he’s on the ball, he protects it with ease, using his body as well as his lovely control of the ball. Has added lots of flair to his game as well; Glides past defenders and gets out of tight spaces brilliantly. Tries things, showing his confidence. The level of Danny Cashman’s goal contributions display that he has a positive end product, to match with all his other qualities.

I would like to see a Football League side take the gamble on Cashman, I think his superb attributes would make him a proper player in League Two. He has minimal experience at the level with Rochdale and Walsall as well.

Richard Chin – Farnborough

My next choice of player for this list of Ten superb National League South players, I’ve gone with one of the most well-known players on the list, former Charlton Athletic academy graduate, Richard Chin, who plays for Spencer Day’s Farnborough.

Farnborough are ANOTHER National League South side who started the season excellently, before dropping off in recent weeks/months. Richard Chin is a player who has been in and out of the Boro team over the past few games but over the course of the season, has proven how good he can be on a number of occasions.

The versatile 22 year-old can play as a wingback, anywhere in the midfield or even as a right winger, where he has spent a large part of this season for Farnborough. The Malaysian playmaker has six goals and 4 assists in 23 games for Boro this season, an impressive return.

Richard Chin has the technical ability to play in The National League AT A MINIMUM, if not League Two. He’s a joy to watch at his best; glides past defenders on the ball, using his quick feet and unpredictability to take on his man. He has a lovely passing ability, excellent vision and weight of pass to play through the lines. Brings a goal threat from anywhere on the pitch as well, excellent at arriving late into the penalty area.

As I mentioned, I’d love to see a League Two or National League club take the gamble on Chin, he needs to improve his consistency but at his best he’s one of the best players in The National League South.

Sam Dreyer – Torquay United

For the second and final Central Defender on my list, I’ve gone for a player who is very different to Kyle Ajayi. Sam “Virgil Van” Dreyer has had an excellent season for The National League South big guns, Torquay United, who sit in second place, joint top of the league.

Under Paul Wotton, Torquay United have built the basis of their successful season off of having an extremely strong defence, whether that be playing a back 3, or a back 4. One consistency in that backline has been the former Stevenage and Peterborough academy prospect, Sam Dreyer.

The highly-rated, 21 year-old defender has had an excellent season for The Gulls so far, displaying, not just his fabulous box-defending ability but his willingness to get on the ball and play progressive passes into Cody Cooke or The Yellows creative players such as Jordan Young and Matt Jay

Sam Dreyer is a brilliant representation of a modern-day, ball-playing defender. He defends his box excellently. Reads the game very well. Good in the air and times his tacklers to perfection. He’s a player who carries the ball into midfield really well, playing progressive, brave passes at the correct periods in a game.

At 21 years-old, he still has a lot of developing to do, both physically, technically and tactically but he certainly has a bright future in football. Certainly in the Football League. For now, I think he’s best off to stay in Devon, with Torquay, until the end of the season. He then may find a move to the EFL in the Summer, where his career belongs.

Josh Hedges – Salisbury

Onto player number seven of the blog, a player who has been injured for a month or two now, having not played a National League South game since Salisbury’s 1-0 loss to Bath City, on the 26th of November. Versatile, creative forward, Josh Hedges is a player who has made the step up to Step Two look incredibly easy.

Josh Hedges has played just seventeen times for The Whites this season, a potential reason to why the club went through a poor vein of form for around a month. Things have picked up recently for Brian Dutton’s side, who are unbeaten in six league games.

As mentioned, The 21 year-old has played just seventeen times for Salisbury in the 2024/25 season. However. The former Didcot man has an unbelievable seven goals and eight assists in that short period, displaying his incredible ability to score and create chances in the final third.

I expect Hedges to go on and have a wonderful career in the English Football Leagues, especially if he can stay fit. His versatility and profile of creative attacker is one of high request in football. Excellent on the ball. Never afraid to take his man on. Good ability to pass through the defensive line. Goals and assists to bring it all together.

I would be surprised to see Josh Hedges in Step Two of non-league past the Summer of 2025. His technical ability and work-rate would make him a top signing for National League sides.

Sam Pearson – Weston Super-Mare

Into our penultimate player of the blog now, former Bristol City, AFC Wimbledon and Yeovil town forward, Sam Pearson has proven that his quality is above the National League South standards in his short spell at Weston Super-Mare so far.

Weston have had a really good season in the clubs second season after being promoted back to The National League South. Scott Bartlett’s side have seriously struggled with injuries this season but currently sit 5 points outside of the playoffs, in eight place. Bartlett is a coach who has a rich history of developing young talent, hence why the move was attractive for Sam Pearson.

Pearson spent the beginning of the 2024/25 season in the National League with Yeovil Town, where he scored once, providing four assists, in just 690 minutes of football. He was then moved on, signing for Weston on a free transfer. The former Welsh youth international has five goals and two assists in just 16 National League South games.

He’s a versatile attacker who can play as a winger or attacking midfielder, providing real quality on the ball. He’s such a willing runner and is someone who works hard. Pearson’s end product has improved massively in the past 6-9 months, which gives me the belief that he could be an excellent signing a National League club.

He’s such an enjoyable player to watch when at his best because of energy and direct play style. Always has the desire to cut through a defence with his pace, agile and ball control.

Jaze Kabia – Truro City

Nine players down, just one left. The final player of this blog piece is someone who is spending his in English Football, after a frustrating start to his career with disappointing spells in Scotland and Ireland. Jaze Kabia, of Truro City, has had a wonderful season under John Askey, as The Tinners sit happily in the final playoff spot.

As mentioned, The 24 year-old has spent disappointing spells at clubs such as Livingston, Cork City and Greenock Morton, before joining Truro at the start of the 2024/25 season. Despite being in his mid 20s, the Irish forward has played for eight different clubs across Ireland and Scotland.

His move down to Cornwall, England was an extremely rogue move by Truro in the Summer of 2024, a piece of recruitment that was superbly done, when you look back on it now. John Askey has his side playing exciting, attacking football with a group of athletic, technical players. This has been the recipe to success for The Tinners throughout this season.

Speaking of Jaze Kabia himself, he’s an energetic athlete who uses is physical profile and attributes to the maximum, usually playing off of the last defender, spinning in behind. At top speed, Kabia is an excellent runner; Long, powerful strides allow him to get away from his man.

His technical attributes are exciting as well; If in tight spaces, he can find himself in a tight area, with defenders around him but has the ability to get out of it with a bit of a flair or skill. He’s a brilliant link-up forward who can drop deep to pick the ball up and pass forward. His finishing in front of goal is superb, shown by ten goals in 27 league games. The forward also has five assists in that period.

I’d love to see Kabia stick the season out with Truro and see where they end up within The National League South. I believe he will be playing in The National League or Football League within 18 months because of how well-rounded a forward he is.

Thankyou!

Thankyou for reading! I would appreciate any feedback or support on the blog, either commenting on this piece or through social media. I hope you enjoyed the read.

Who is your favourite player in The National a league South and who would you like to see on the next list? I would you sign any of these players for your club and why?

If you have requests for pieces you’d like to see me do, drop them in the comments.

Walsall suffered a HUGE loss to their promotion hopes over the past week, seeing one of their star players, 19 year-old forward, Nathan Lowe, recalled by his parent club, Stoke City. Lowe scored 15 goals and contributed 5 assists for the Saddlers in just 22 games across the start of the 2024/25 season.

I think The Saddlers will look to replace the Stoke City man in the January Transfer Window.

In this piece I have decided to take a look at 3 players Mat Sadler could bring to The Bescot Stadium this January to replace the fairly large loss of top-scorer, Nathan Lowe. I think Sadler will look to bring in a well-rounded forward who can work well alongside the physical Jamille Matt.

I hope all enjoy the read and I would love to hear the thoughts of Walsall fans. Do you agree with my 3 suggestions to replace Nathan Lowe. Please share the blog around and give any feedback on the piece. Enjoy!

Dominic Ballard

Suggestion number one of the blog comes from the South Coast, with highly rated Southampton forward, Dom Ballard. The former England youth international has spent this season out on loan in League One, with Blackpool. However, the 19 year-old struggled to perform to a high standard, scoring just once for The Tangerines in 18 League One games.

He was recently recalled by The Saints, continuing his excellent goalscoring records for their youth sides, with 3 goals and an assist in just 2 Premier League 2 games. Ballard has proven his quality in the age restricted leagues for four/five years now, as shown below.

After struggling at Blackpool this season, under both Steve Bruce and Neil Critchley, I think a move into League Two could be just what Ballard needs to build his form and reputation in senior football. Walsall is the perfect place for him to do this. Sadler has such a settled squad there, with an excellent strike-partner in place for anyone who arrives at The Midlands side. They are top of the league and absolutely flying. I think this would be the perfect move for all parties involved.

Ballard is a forward I really like because of his balanced skillset as a centre forward. I think his qualities matchup similarly to those of Nathan Lowe, something Walsall should take into account when recruiting a forward, so nothing changes from a tactical point of view.

The former Reading striker has always been such a natural finisher, displaying his composure with all types of finishes. Right foot. Left foot. Excellent in the air as well. He is always willing to change his game up, having the ability to look for the ball to feet and be a link between the midfield and attack, or spin in behind the opposition defence. He’s extremely quick and tough to deal with for defenders.

Joseph Gardner

My second suggestion of a forward The Saddlers could look to sign, as a replacement for Nathan Lowe is another option on loan from a Premier League side. Joe Gardner is a wonderful goalscorer in Nottingham Forest’s Premier League 2 side but has made just one appearance in senior football, in the FA Cup last season.

As I mentioned previously, Gardner is yet to have a senior loan into professional football but as a 19 year-old, he is coming into the stage in his career where senior minutes are so important for a players development. Forrest are reportedly looking to send Gardner on loan for the remainder of the season. I don’t think there are many better places for the young talent, than a high-flying Walsall side.

Joe Gardner is having an impressive breakthrough campaign in Forrest’s Under-21s side, scoring six goals and assisting twice in just eleven games. He’s displayed his well-rounded abilities in abundance for Warren Joyce’s side this season, showing levels of superb finishing and composure when he gets into goalscoring positions.

As I mentioned when writing about the Dom Ballard suggestion, if Walsall are to replace Nathan Lowe, they will want a forward who can partner alongside Jamille Matt in a 3-5-2 formation. In The Saddlers 4-2 win against MK Dons, on Saturday 18th January, Albert Adomah played as the second striker alongside Matt, proving that Walsall need another Number 9 in this Transfer Window.

He brings similar qualities to his game from those of Nathan Lowe. He’s willing to run in behind, using his pace and strikers instinct to pick up brilliant areas in and around the penalty area. He always has the physical qualities to give short options and link the play.

Tom Cursons

My first two suggestions of this blog piece were loans from Premier League clubs, players who need game time to develop themselves. For my third and final suggestion, I’ve gone with a bit of a rogue shout: Tom Cursons of Ilkeston Town, who sit in the playoffs of The Northern Premier Division (Step 3 of Non-League).

The 23 year-old forward is having a superb season for Ilkeston Town, scoring an impressive 22 goals for The Robins in the first half of the 2024/25 season. A handful of top League One clubs have been rumoured to be interested in Cursons but game time is something he will be wanting. Walsall could offer this straight away.

Walsall have proven a willingness to recruit from non-league before and with great success as well. Two of their most important, valuable players so far this season were recruited from the non-league system; Jamie Jellis from Tamworth and Connor Barrett from AFC Fylde, just to name a couple.

Cursons is one of, if not THE MOST wanted players below The National League system (Step 1+2) currently and it’s clear to see why. A fantastic forward who scores all types of goals from all over the pitch. He’s got an excellent physical profile, using his pace and strength to power through and hold opponents off. He has a wonderful composure and awareness to take an extra touch if needed, putting off defenders or the goalkeeper.

He is a complete-forward, similar to Nathan Lowe, who can change his game up to suit his teammates. He’s excellent in the air and works extremely hard to create chances for himself and his teammates. He’s excellent in the air but has a great control of the ball when it’s at his feet. Can score with either foot as well.

As a scout in non-league, I would love to see another gem step up into the Football League and thrive. Tom Cursons is the perfect profile of player to have the ability to step up.

Thankyou for reading! I would appreciate any feedback or support on the blog, either commenting on this piece or through social media. I hope you enjoyed the read.

Who would you sign if you had the chance to make the decision and what do you think of my THREE suggestions?

It has been a tough few days in the transfer market if you support Cheltenham Town, exciting creative midfielder, Joel Colwill has been recalled by Championship side, Cardiff City, and sent back out on loan to League One’s, Exeter City.

The Robins will surely be looking to replace the 20 year-old Wales U21 playmaker in the January Transfer Window.

In this piece I have taken a look at what Joel Colwill brought to this Cheltenham Town squad, before finding 3 players who could fit the bill and replace what losing Colwill has taken away.

I hope all enjoy the read and I would love to hear the thoughts of Cheltenham fans. Do you agree with my selections to replace Joel Colwill? Please share the blog around and give any feedback for the piece! Enjoy!

Kristian Sekularac

My first of two honourable mentions for the attacking midfield position at Cheltenham Town, is Fulham and Switzerland youth international, Kristian Sekularac. The 21 year-old creative midfielder has 6 goals and an assist in just 11 games for The Cottagers Premier League 2 side this season.

The former Juventus youth player spent time at the Italian giants from when he signed from Servette, in 2018 until the 2021/22 season, where he played 26 games for Juve’s U19s side. He then moved to West London in 2022, where he has began to become one of the most creative midfielders in the PL2. He also made a handful of appearances for a number of the Switzerland youth teams, including a singular appearance in the U21s.

He is a fairly high profile youth academy prospect but is yet to make any performance in senior football, whether that be for Servette, Juventus or Fulham. It’s fairly hard to judge where players should be spending their first senior loans but League Two is always a good opportunity because of how competitive and physically demanding games can be.

Sekularac’s experiences in different environments could help the Swiss creator if he was to move on loan because of previous experience in relocating.

The 21 year-old is of a similar profile to Joel Colwill; A tall, slim player who uses his body excellently when carrying the ball. The use of his body in the final third is a real pro to his game as it allows him to spin his defender or win duels.

In the 2023/24 season, Sekularac had 13 goals contributions in 30 games for Fulham U21s, displaying his ability to not only create plenty of chances but also scores different types of goals. He’s an excellent box crashing midfielder who finds a lot of joy in the pockets space on the edge of the oppositions penalty area.

He has the ability to unlock an opposition with one defence-spitting pass through the lines. He can also move the ball by carrying it into space, similar to Joel Colwill, driving through the midfield.

Harry Whitwell

My second and final honourable mention of this list is another goalscorer in the PL2, this time playing for West Brom; versatile 19 year-old forward, Harry Whitwell. At Whitwell’s age he needs to be out playing senior football , which he is yet to do in his career yet.

Similar to Sekularac, Whitwell is of a similar build to Colwill but his style and profile of position is slightly different. He is more of a Second Striker, who stays fairly high up the pitch. His main aim is to pick up the second balls as the forward knocks it down to him. His ability to score goals in and around the penalty area is proven by his record this season. He has 5 goals and 2 assists in just 8 PL2 games.

With The Robins’ strikers putting up disappointing numbers this season, signing a goalscoring Number Ten could be a good way of getting past the problem of goals through the centre, especially now Colwill has left.

Whitwell is highly rated at West Brom; He’s been playing in the PL2 since 16-17 years-old which potentially shows that he wouldn’t be phased by the step into senior football. He has made a singular appearance for The Baggies this season, playing almost 80 minutes in a League Cup game against Fleetwood. That would’ve been a brilliant experience.

His ariel presence allows him to be a target from set pieces and goal kicks. His ability to brings others into the game as a Number Ten is very impressive. He can drive at the opposition defence before finding the correct pass, showing his quality decision making before the right technique, accuracy and weight of pass.

Caylan Vickers

I have gone down the Second Striker route again for my final and favoured pick of the blog. Brighton & Hove Albion forward, Caylan Vickers has become one of The Seagulls most exciting players over the past year, following his move to the South Coast from Reading in the last year.

The 20 year-old is the only player I’ve chosen that has consistent senior minutes of football in the past. He was a regular for The Royals at the start of the 2023/24 campaign, where he made 14 appearances in League One, scoring once.

Vickers has had a strong season for Brighton’s U21s squad in the PL2 this season, scoring 5 goals and earning himself 2 assists, over just 10 games!

I think he needs to go out on loan for the second half of this season, the 20 year-old needs regular football at his age. Cheltenham could give him this in abundance over the rest of the 2024/25 campaign. He could certainly do a job in League One but may not be guaranteed regular, consistent minutes.

He certainly passes the eye-test with his wonderful ball-carrying ability. He’s able to go around either side of the opposition, adding a bit of skill as well like a drop of the shoulder or some quick feet. He’d add more star-dust to an already technically-gifted “three behind the striker”.

He’s added end product to his game; finding goals + assists on top of his excellent “line-breaking ability to carry the ball through midfield. This is why I think he’d suit the Number Ten role more than a proper Number Nine but he’s versatile enough to play there if needed.

Bright are obviously an extremely successful development club and do things correctly. I think The Robins can be assured that they would be getting a superb player, just be how highly rated he is on The South Coast.

Thankyou for reading! This is my FIRST transfer suggestions piece on the blog so I would appreciate any feedback to the piece.

Who would you sign if you had the chance to make the decision and what do you think of my THREE suggestions

In this blog, I will be reviewing the promotion race in the National League, at the halfway stage of the 2024/25 season. I will take a deep, researched look at each side in the Top 7 AT THE TIME OF WRITING, whilst explaining their chances of winning the title. I will then come up with a conclusion for the overall promotion race.

* Blog is written at the time of the top photo!*

Enjoy the read! I appreciate any shares for this piece of work on my website. I’d also be interested in hearing your thoughts on the National League title race.

York City

We start the core bit of this blog with the current league leaders, York City, who have had a tremendous first twenty-four games of the National League season, under Adam Hinshelwood, who is building a fantastic, attacking outfit at the LNER.

After a dreadful first season in the “Uggla era” at York, it looks as though lessons have been learnt and mistakes have been corrected, as the Minstermen lead the way, sitting on 51 points! The professionalism and structure at York has been thought through and improved for their promotion push this season. Recruitment has been superb – quality has been brought in the correct areas, to strengthen their squad.

It’s easy to say “If you spend the most money, you should be top of the league”, but you still have to do things correctly. They are clearly planning for future years, proven by the permanent signings of 22 year-old central defender, Malachi Fagan-Walcott, from Cardiff City on a 4-year deal and the signing of 21 year-old forward, Josh Stones, for a reported fee of £350,000!

They have a superb, young manager in Adam Hinshelwood. Someone who plays wonderful, attacking football, entertaining fans and scoring plenty of goals – 48 in the National League (2 goals per game). One criticism I had of Hinshelwood, from his time at Worthing, is how open his defence was; having a lack of defensive structure probably cost The Rebels in some vital moments last season. However, it seems as though he has improved on that this season, with City conceding less than a goal a game so far, having the joint best defence in the league. This is massively helped by the superb central defenders at the club; Callum Howe and Malachi Walcott are playing key roles in that side!

The attacking quality in the side is matched with quantity as well; forwards such as Lenell John-Lewis, Dipo Akinyemi and Luca Thomas support the incredible Ollie Pearce, who already has 15 goals for City! Not only is it the quality through the middle for York, their wide players; David Ajiboye, Tyrese Sinclair and Ashley Nathaniel-George offer such brilliance on the wings with their energy and direct play. They have just signed Josh Stones from Wigan Athletic on a permanent transfer to bolster their attacking numbers further.

Having spoke about the excellence of their players at either end of the pitch, I feel that I would be disrespecting THAT midfield if I didn’t give it a mention. Dan Batty and Alex Hunt make up a strong double-pivot, keeping the game ticking, while the energetic Marcus Armstrong brings real athleticism to their midfield. Ricky Aguiar adds some great depth as well!

I feel that the current table-toppers have the best chance of winning the league because of their consistent ruthlessness and quality all over the pitch. They show no signs of slowing down and may still improve their squad further. The balance in that squad is perfect!

It’s hard to look past that side!

Forest Green Rovers

Onto the current second place side in the National League; Forest Green Rovers, who have lost the least games in the league so far this season (2) and are currently on an unbeaten run of 13 games, since losing 1-0 at Boundary Park, against a solid Oldham side.

Following back-to-back relegations, from League One, all the way down to The National League, Forest Green are responding in the perfect way by being difficult to beat and consistent to do there best in getting out of this league. They have been excellent so far this season; 50 points from 24 games is a fantastic return of just over 2 points per game! The biggest problem for Rovers is the teams around them, such as York and Barnet.

I think the biggest downfall at Forest Green is that they don’t really have that one, out-and-out, true goalscorer up top who can hit 20-25 goals in the campaign. They have threats such as Doidge, McCann and Kyle McAllister who may all score around 15 for the season, I don’t think they have a proper goalscorer at the club currently.

The main strength at Forest Green is how difficult they have made themselves to beat this season. Just 20 goals conceded in 24 games so far; losing just twice in that time, against Barnet and Oldham, two sides in the top 5, away from home! They have an excellent defensive structure, thanks to manager, Steve Cotterill, who sets Rovers up to be solid defensively, focusing on winnings duels across the pitch.

Their recruitment supported this excellently, bringing in a mixture of experience and youth to support the physical side of things. The defensive signings or Ben Tozer and Sean Long gave them extra support alongside Ryan Innis and Jordan Moore-Taylor, who were already at the club.

The midfield is an area where Forest Green have an abundance of technicians, who keep the game ticking over and create chances for the attacking players. Liam Sercombe, Adam May, Emmanuel Osadebe, Charlie McCann and Harvey Bunker make up for an excellent unit across the midfield, giving them strength, power, technical brilliance and a goal threat from McCann and Bunker!

I think Forest Green are an excellent side but out of the current Top 3, I feel they are the weakest; purely because of style and a lack of a true goalscoring number 9! They seem to grind out results, despite playing poorly but that may not happen against the better sides.

Barnet FC

Next up we head down to North London, to The Hive, where Dean Brennan’s Barnet sit 3rd in The National League, joint on points with Forest Green (50), but playing 1 more game than Rovers. The Bees have scored 51 goals and conceded 30.

Barnet were definitely the preseason favourites for most people, including myself, their recruitment looked excellent IF everyone could’ve been kept fit. That was the gamble that Brennan and co. took at the start of the season but they’ve had a couple of injuries to cost them in vital moments. They’ve still had a good first half of this season anyway.

Brennan has been an excellent manager for Barnet, working his way through non-league with Billericay and Wealdstone, before joining The Bees. He’s managed 179 games, at the time of writing, winning just under 50% of them. His main focus and style is to dominate possession, completely out-passing the opposition, before displaying free-flowing, quick football, in the final third. This has worked excellent for Barnet but they do concede a lot of goals. That’s just the nature of Brennan’s style.

They have quality all over the pitch, in numbers as well; Barnet have a massive squad, full of good players. The goalkeeping of Nick Hayes has been questioned at times this season; the former Solihull goalkeeper makes the odd mistake, costing his side. In reaction to this, they signed Owen Evans, on loan from Cheltenham, for the remainder of the season.

I think Barnet may be quiet on incomings for the remainder of this season; the defensive and midfield options are absolutely stacked with quality. Zak Brunt and Anthony Hartigan are two of the better midfields in the National League; they are the mainstays in the midfield, with the third option being rotated. The Bees play a back 5, this is rotated around between 8-9 players. They will naturally concede goals because of the style but they do have an excellent defensive unit.

The area that Barnet do need to improve in is the forward position; Callum Stead and Nicke Kabamba are brilliant strikers for The National League but they could do with another goal-scoring body in there.

I think Barnet have the overall quality and manager to stay in touch with the title race throughout the season, winning the big games against title rivals could push them over the line.

They are certainly one of the contenders…

Gateshead FC

The most Northern team in the National League take up fourth spot at the level at the halfway stage of the 2024/25 season, under their second manager of the season, former Carlisle United assistant coach, Carl Magnay. He replaced Rob Elliott, after the former Newcastle United goalkeeper moved to Crawley Town, in League One.

Magnay has made an excellent impact at Gateshead, coaching the side to play similar football that was used under Mike Williamson and Rob Elliott in the preview few seasons. The Heed are suited to a 3-5-2 formation, utilising a very possession-heavy, attacking style, seeing them score the second most goals in the league, whilst have an average possession of 63.8%.

One downfall for Gateshead in the second half of this season could be the factor of how costly this January transfer window has been to their playing squad, despite being just a third of the way through it. Key players, Callum Whelan, Owen Oseni and Ben Radcliffe have all left the club in the opening days of this window, with reports that star player, Regan Booty could leave as well. The clubs recruitment has been excellent over recent seasons but the stature of player that has left could cost the clubs position.

The four players previously mentioned have been massively key to the clubs success this season. Ben Radcliffe is a superb defender, that Gateshead had on loan from Derby. He’s excellent on the ball and has a physical profile well above his age. Callum Whelan and Regan Booty were/are two of the best midfielders in the National League, they really allowed Gateshead to play the desired football to create chances. Those chances were consistently finished by 21 year-old forward, Owen Oseni, who scored 13 goals in just 24 National League games. He left Gateshead for Scottish side, St Mirren, for a reported fee of £65.000.

I still feel that the club has enough quality on the pitch to stay in the playoffs for the rest of the season and I have no doubt that they will recruit excellently, as they always do. However, I feel that they may drop a couple of places, Oldham have many games in hand and Solihull are picking up some serious form!

Another potential issue for Gateshead is the amount of goals they have conceded so far this season (32 in 25 games). That number ranks 12th in the National League, losing Ben Radcliffe could affect this further, if a replacement isn’t found quickly.

Oldham Athletic

The biggest club in the league take up the 5th place spot in the league at this stage of the season, Oldham Athletic are the only former Premier League club to be relegated out of the football league, that is before Swindon potentially do it this season!!

The Latics have had a very solid season, in an extremely competitive National League campaign, at the half way stage they sit on 44 points, with 2 games in hand on the teams above them, meaning they can jump to 3rd, if they win both games.

Michael Mellon is an excellent manager for Oldham, who has experience of gaining promotion out of the National League previously, when he won via the playoffs in the 2017/18 season, after finishing second behind Macclesfield. They are a side who play less of a possession based style, going more direct up to their big forwards, James Norwood and Mike Fondop. Oldham have complete just 238 passes on average per 90 this season, ranking 19th in the National League. Whereas, they complete the fourth most longballs per 90 (31.3).

The main core of the Oldham Athletic squad is built of some superb players who have proven their qualities in the National League or Football League previously such as Manny Monthe, Charlie Raglan, Sam Clucas, Tom Conlon and James Norwood. It’s a squad full of promotions and playoff successes. Oldham fans will be hoping that those experiences can help push the club back into the Football League, where they belong (at a minimum).

The side have an excellent defensive record, conceding just 21 goals in 23 games so far in the National League this season, helping the fact that they’ve lost just 3 games throughout the whole campaign. They’ve scored the sixth most goals in the league so far – 41 – but I think that needs to improve if they are to push for promotion. Mike Fondop is The Latics top scorer this season but he has scored just 9 goals in 21 games, which is good but not excellent!

In Oldham’s recent game against Hartlepool United, in which they lost 2-1, the average age of their starting eleven was 29.1, which included 21 year-old forward Josh Stones, who has since left the club and signed for title rivals, York City. This has its benefits including experience and know-how. However, it could come costly with injuries and physical demands and the latter stages of the season.

I have mentioned the loss of Josh Stoned, who scored 8 goals in 12 National League appearances for the club, across two spells, on loan from Wigan Athletic. He has since been sold to York City on a permanent deal, with the Minstermen paying a reported six-figure-fee for the 21 year-old. Two more potential departures are former Stoke City midfielder, Sam Clucas, who has a clause in his contract, allowing him to leave for free. Alex Reid is also on his way out, after being out of favour at Oldham.

With all the experience in The Latics squad, I think they will have a superb second half of the season and push for the title against Forest Green, York and Barnet.

Solihull Moors

As we come to our penultimate club in this blog piece we have a side who have made the playoffs on a few occasions since the 2018/19 season, 3 times to be specific, including making the final twice, against Grimsby and Bromley last season, losing on penalties after an enthralling 2-2 draw.

After an inconsistent start to the 2024/25 campaign, it looked as thought The Moors were going to struggle to reach the playoffs this time around, but after a run of three losses in fourteen games, they have found themselves on 41 points after 15 games, scoring 45 goals, conceding 36!

Andy Whing is a name I fully recommend readers getting to know over the next 6-12 months in the National League. Solihull Moors appointed the former Banbury United manager because of his exciting, attacking style of play. It’s certainly entertaining; They are the fourth best goal-scorers in the division (45 in 25) but have the 16th worst defensive record, conceding 36 goals in the same amount of games! They have had a few games finish with over 6 goals in this season, meaning they are an exciting team for the neutrals!

Similar to Oldham, The Moors could lose one or two over the course of the January transfer window. Winger and star player, Jack Stevens is deserving of a move into the EFL, potentially even League One, after a superb start to his National League campaign, with the 24 year-old having 11 goals and 4 assists in just 19 appearances this season! On the flip-side, if Solihull manage to keep hold of the former Banbury man, they certainly boost their chances of pushing deeper into the playoffs.

I’ve waxed lyrical about Solihull’s superb front-line in this part of my blog but I will continue to do so, especially after they announced the signing of Wolverhampton Wanderers U21 forward, Fletcher Holman, on loan for the reminder of the season. The 20 year-old striker has been excellent for the Premier League 2 side this season, scoring 10 goals in 20 games! He will make a superb partner for Conor Wilkinson in that wonderful Moors frontline.

Solihull certainly have an impressive squad, the likes of captain Jamey Osbourne, goalkeeper Laurie Walker and two defenders, Alex Whitmore and James Clarke make up the core of a superb National League squad.

The Moors should make the playoffs fairly comfortably come the end of the season, it’s whether they can find promotion at the fourth attempt!

Rochdale AFC

After almost 3000 words of writing, we come to our final team of my National League promotion race blog! Dale fans have been through years of hurt and worry that they may not even have a club to support anymore but luckily they were taken over last season, pumping new life and energy into the club.

Jim McNulty’s side have been brilliant at times this season but also a bit inconsistent, losing sevens of their opening 22 matches. That’s almost a loss every 3 games! If anything is going to be the downfall for Dale it will be the fact they don’t score enough goals, which leads to losing more games.

Rochdale have been excellent in the defensive areas of the pitch; the back-three of Kyron Gordon, Liam Hogan/Ebanks-Landell and Sam Beckwith has been absolutely fantastic for McNulty’s side.

Improvements are definitely needed across the squad but especially in the creative midfield and attacking areas of the pitch. Kairo Mitchell has had a good season for Dale, scoring 11 goals in 20 games. However, just two of them have come in his previous 7 National League games, in his recent fixture against AFC Fylde.

One of Rochdale’s best technical players is Tanzanian wingback/winger, Tarryn Allarakhia. I have shared my appreciation for the 27 year-old on many occasions before; his ability to get at his man and go either way gives him the edge in 1-on-1 situations. They need more players like him in their squad.

Rochdale’s position in my predictions could fluctuate massively, depending on what sort of recruitment they do over the next few weeks.

Conclusion

Here we are! After previewing all seven clubs who currently fill the playoffs of the National League, I am coming to my conclusion, where I will be predicting how the Top Seven will look come the final day of this incredible season, on the 5th of May!

1st – York City (Champions)

Best squad in the league for me and the most interesting manager tactically; clear winners for me. The signing of Josh Stones will certainly help their chances of the title and they could still strengthen their squad!

2nd – Barnet FC

Impressive squad and I do really like Dean Brennan as a manger but York will have too much for The Bees in my opinion. They have see Lee Ndlovu but still need a defender.

3rd – Forest Green Rovers

They have struggled in recent weeks, conceding some silly goals. They seem to be creating lots less chances now and missing Charlie McCann massively.

4th – Oldham Athletic (Playoff W)

Superb, experienced squad; I think they’ll have an excellent second half to this season and they are my playoff winners. Winning manager and winning players.

5th – Solihull Moors

Great attacking squad and manager. If they keep Jack Stevens they will have a very good second half of the season because of the attacking quality. I haven’t put them any higher because they concede too many.

6th – Gateshead FC

I’m worried about Gateshead; three players out already and Regan Booty on his way. That could cost them the playoffs but I trust their recruitment enough to bring in some fantastic replacements. I feel they may slip a few places though.

7th – Rochdale AFC

I’ve gone with the same Top Seven as the current one. Big gap between these seven sides and below for me! Another good, underrated side. Don’t concede many goals and should keep hold of Kairo Mitchell. One season too early for me! They will also play every Tuesday at the end of the season.

Thankyou!

I would love to hear your predictions of what the Top Seven will look like in the National League this season?

Thankyou for reading. As I previously mentioned, I’d appreciate any feedback or support on this piece. Any shares would be massively appreciated as well!