Having joined Wigan Athletic in January on a loan until the end of the season from Premier League outfit Brentford, the move was expected to rejuvenate defender Charlie Goode.
He’d at the very least get a decent-enough amount of game time during his spell, making 11 starts and two substitute appearances during his time at the DW Stadium. Goode wouldn’t exactly stand out for the Latics, but he would hold his own within the starting eleven and proved to be a worthy addition to the squad.
Wigan would end the season in 12th, and would go unbeaten in their last five games. A points deduction at the start of the season would scupper any promotion ambitions, but there’s plenty of hope for the future of the club under Shaun Maloney, who did a great job this season given the circumstances.
Goode’s loan didn’t totally work out, with the defender returning to Brentford prior to the end of the season but that was down to personal reasons according to Maloney. He would however captain the side on one occasion, emphasising his leadership qualities and looked to have got some confidence back.
The defender is now set to be a free agent this summer, confirming on his official twitter that he would be moving on from the Bees.
Given he’d only make 20 appearances for the London-based side, six of those coming in the Premier League during a four-season stay, it doesn’t come as a huge surprise to see him moving on this summer. He’ll therefore be available on a free transfer, but it is unknown if the Latics will be in for him after his loan spell.
With plenty of experience in the EFL through spells with Scunthorpe United and more notably Northampton Town, Goode is up to the level and if able to get over the last couple of seasons, he could be quite an asset for any League One side.
He’d certainly add experience to any side which needs it, however maybe he’s not quite the sort of player that Maloney will want going forward as he and his side target promotion to the Championship.
Writer’s View
Now available on a free transfer, Goode could be quite the acquisition this summer, especially if getting regular game time. He may however struggle with getting that at Wigan and although it was by no means his fault, his spell with the club perhaps didn’t finish on the best of notes.
He’ll be eager to prove his worth next term and would look comfortable in quite a few third tier defences. It’s currently unknown what is next for the former Northampton man, but a drop down the leagues can certainly be expected as he looks to get his career somewhat back on track.