This is the penultimate piece regarding players who have been released by fellow League Two clubs. Later this week, I will finish League Two, and then look at those who have been released by League One. The players I have listed are a mixture of players I think would be worth looking at, for a mixture of reasons.
First up, Liam Shephard. Liam is an experienced midfielder for his age. He is 25 years old, and has amassed just under 150 league appearances, all in either Leagues One or Two. He is a Right-Back, who has also played in midfield too, at RM. In his 102 League 2 games, he has scored 7 goals, and chipped in with 8 assists, so he has an attacking flair to his game. Despite being part of a struggling Yeovil team, Shephard moved to League One Peterborough, before his move to Forest Green. At Forest Green, he has had two successful seasons, finishing in the play-offs, and a 10th place finish this season. He has a good pedigree, and has developed with experienced. For me, he would really add depth to our right-side, wherever he plays. However, I feel that the position of Right-Back will be filled for the season, and budget may come into play, stopping us recruiting there. If not, then I think he would be a real statement of a signing.
Reggie Lambe, is a 29 year old versatile midfielder. He has played nearly 200 games in League Two, and over 50 in the MLS. In League Two, he has scored 27 goals, and 10 assists, all the while. His best spell was with Carlisle, where he aided them reaching the play-offs, and to a 10th place finish. He predominantly plays as a RM, but has played on the left, and as a CAM too. I feel his versatility out wide, and in the middle would be key, for what will be a smaller squad. He also has a good record in this league. He is experienced, but at 29, still has a lot to offer. The other reason why I think he should be looked at, is our Bermudan connection. Lambe has 41 international appearances, and 9 goals for home nation Bermuda, where he is managed by Kyle Lightbourne. There is a link there, a chance for the club to check in with Kyle and for Kyle to recommend to the club too. I do feel he would be a good signing.
Next up, we have a player that I have always thought has been talented, but has sometimes struggled. Rohan Ince has had a varied career, when he was younger, much was made of his potential, however he has started slipping down the leagues, and after missing a season with a knee injury, he has struggled to get back playing. He totalled 15 appearances for Cheltenham before being released. He is a holding midfielder who can slot into defence if required. Darrell Clarke has a habit of getting players in who may need nurturing back, such as Guthrie, McDonald and Kiersey. So Ince could be the type of player Clarke might see worth a gamble.
Samir Carruthers was a staple feature in Aston Villa’s Academy and Reserves for a number of years. He then moved on to MK Dons and Sheffield United, where he was regular for both teams in League 1 and the Championship. After United, he moved to Oxford, then Cambridge. He didn’t really find his feet with Cambridge, however they had a very mixed season. There is no doubting his talents. He has played a lot in leagues above ours, and has a connection to the midlands. He plays in the middle of the park, but is an attacking midfielder. He has regularly chipped in with goals and assists, and I think he would be a welcome addition to our squad. He has also very occasionally played out wide if required. For me, he is similar to Reggie Lambe. Talented, versatile and what we need.
Here are some other notable mentions,
George Williams – FGR – Attacking Midfielder who can play all across the front. Struggled for games this season, however his goals and assists record is very good.
Elliot Frear – FGR – Left Mid who can play at LB too. Not hugely experienced in League 2, however he had a good spell in the SPL. Could provide good cover all along that left hand side.
So there are a few players that I feel could be good additions. It may be a while before we do see any signings, however I will continue to look at players who may fit the bill!
