Former Ipswich Town forward Freddie Sears has today been unveiled as Braintree Town’s latest signing.
Braintree currently sit in fifth in the National League South table and the signing emphasises the direction that the club are currently going in. Although they may well sit in the play-off places currently, that position is by no means guaranteed with plenty of teams still in with a chance of promotion.
Sears brings obvious quality as well as a whole host of experience at the elite level at a time of the season when it is needed most. That said experience may just be what the team needs to solidify their place in the play-offs. Unbeaten in their last 11, they’ve got the best form in the league and if able to carry this form for the rest of the season, will be a force to be reckoned with in the play-offs.
The now 34-year-old had previously been with National League outfit Dagenham and Redbridge, however an agreement was reached between him and the club to mutually terminate his contract after scoring just once in 21 National League appearances this season.
Potentially best known for his time with Ipswich Town, Sears was a mainstay in the Tractor Boys’ team for several seasons after he joined from Colchester United midway through the 2014/15 season. He’d help take Ipswich to the Championship play-offs that same season, racking up 13 goal contributions in 21 games. They would however be knocked out by arch rivals Norwich City in the semi-finals.
During an illustrious career, Sears would also make several Premier League appearances for West Ham after coming through the Hammers’ academy, and would score twice in 26 appearances in the top flight. He would however really make a name for himself at Colchester and his performances for the U’s would be what earned him a move to Ipswich.
Sears would in fact play for the now League Two side in two separate stints with the club either side of his time at Portman Road and will go down into the history books as somewhat of a cult hero.
The move to Braintree does however seem the last role of the dice for the forward, who’s numbers have severely deteriorated over the last two seasons.
Writer’s View
It is obvious that Sears is no longer the force of old but he should definitely offer something in the National League South. His experience will be extremely valuable for Braintree and may be just what they need in order to achieve promotion this season.
Ipswich fans will have fond memories of the forward who had a few productive seasons at Portman Road and the same can be said for Colchester fans. He’s had a great career so far and maybe he doesn’t plan to stop just yet. If able to help Braintree to the National League then we may well see the 34-year-old return again next season.
Senior Editor
