The fourth tier of English football has arguably been the most entertaining so far this season. Here, we discuss five high-performing individuals who will be setting their sights on progressing further up the footballing pyramid.
Following on from the ‘Championship’ and ‘League One’ instalments, in this edition we consider those stand-out starlets who are deserving and more than capable of plying their trade at a higher level.
AFC Wimbledon’s sharp shooter has became a key asset for Johnnie Jackson’s side since moving to the Cherry Red Records Stadium in January. Although Al-Hamadi’s only been through the door for ten months, there’s no disputing the impact he’s made in such a short space of time.
The 21-year-old is a dynamic frontman who combines pace, power and clinical finishing to devastating effect. The 6-cap Iraqi international converted ten times in just 19 appearances last campaign, whereas this time around the former Wycombe Wanderers man has contributed to 11 goal involvements, including six goals.
Therefore, it’s no surprise that clubs from a higher stature have come sniffing around a potential move. As reported by Football League World; Peterborough saw a bid rejected in August. Whilst rumours have arose regarding interest from Championship giants Sunderland and Leeds United.
Ultimately, it seems inevitable that The Wombles are destined to lose their number ’10s’ services. However, with a contract expiring in the summer of 2025, AFC Wimbledon are certainly in good stead for a handsome transfer fee.
Davis Keillor-Dunn is experiencing a rich-vein of form so far this campaign, however this shouldn’t come as a surprise whatsoever. Beginning his career in Scotland with Ross County, the 26-year-old developed a name for himself with Oldham Athletic between 2020 and 2022.
Across two campaigns with The Latics, Keillor-Dunn grabbed 25 goals alongside two assists for a struggling side in the fourth tier, a highly impressive return. Oh the back of this success, Burton Albion of League One secured the versatile attacker’s signature on a free transfer.
The forward’s stay was short lived at The Pirelli, despite claiming five goals in 19 league outings. Joining current club Mansfield Town in January, Keillor-Dunn has once again proven his ability is far greater than the expected standard of the rest of the division.
Instrumental in the free-flowing attacking football the Stags play, the former Sunderland youth prospect has 15 goals and 8 assists to his name in just 35 league outings. Amidst reported interest from QPR, Hull City and Millwall, Mansfield will be bracing themselves for the reality of losing their crucial playmaker.
Admittedly there’s an overwhelming case that the vast majority of the high-flying Stockport County squad could be included in such a discussion. One standout performer who has gone quietly under the radar though is the midfield general Will Collar.
Moving to Edgeley Park in February 2021 from Scottish club, Hamilton Academical, the 26-year-old has played a valuable role in the recent success enjoyed by the Mancunian outfit. A set-piece specialist, Collar also possesses a fantastic passing range, alongside a tough-tackling approach.
29 goals throughout his tenure suggests he also knows where the back of the net is. Someone with such an influential attacking output, whilst not being an out and out forward player emphasises how important he is to the Hatters.
When comparing Collar, Owen Moxon is a great example. The Carlisle United man has plenty of admirers and so should Stockport’s man. When considering the difference in level between League One and League Two, the former Brighton man can certainly make the jump.
Colchester United have an outstanding player in Arthur Read. The former Luton Town man joined the Essex side from fellow Southerners – Stevenage. In his time with Boro, Read enjoyed regular game time before falling out of favour, resulting in a move east to the U’s in January.
Similarly to the above mentioned Will Collar, Arthur Read is regarded a set-piece specialist with an exceptional ability of striking the ball. There’s more than just goals to his game though, as his hard-working, relentless nature promotes a positive attitude to fans and teammates alike.
The 24-year-old has proven quality, but is yet to feature above League Two. Finding consistency is key, and this season he has certainly find that with his new employers. In just 14 matches, Read has returned four goals and four assists.
Unfortunate not to be involved in Stevenage’s promotion success, the Camden born man will certainly be keen to impress and rightfully earn the chance to play at a higher standard.
A product of the prestigious Arsenal youth set-up, Crowley has an extremely unique footballing CV. Four separate spells in the Netherlands alongside stints at six different clubs across the EFL may raise a few eyebrows, considering the tricky midfielder is just 26.
However, there’s no denying the sheer genius and and outright quality the former Birmingham City man possesses. In truth, Crowley may have felt unsettled elsewhere, but with Notts County he seems right at home.
Excelling under Luke Williams’ guidance, The Magpies’ ‘7’ offers something completely different. A play-style consisting of composure, sharp turns, exceptional close control and a sensational eye for a pass, Daniel Crowley gets the crowd off their seats.
In the past, questions have been asked around attitude, but in this moment of time, Meadow Park seems like the best place for his career. However, should a club in a higher division come calling, the prospect may be too good to turn down.
