Ed Francis has completed a move to Exeter City from National League outfit Gateshead, signing a two-year deal with the Grecians according to their official website.
After a standout season, where he’d help Gateshead to the FA Trophy just a year after losing in the final the previous year, Francis seemed rather likely to make a step-up from the National League. Everpresent in the Heed’s starting eleven throughout the season, they’d have success in the National League as well, finishing sixth.
However, due to supposedly not meeting the criteria of a “10-year security of tenure” at their home stadium, the Gateshead International Stadium, they were thrown out of the play-offs. Given that they cannot be promoted as a result of that, that may well have had an impact in Francis’ decision to leave this summer.
On a personal level, the defence-minded midfielder, who can also play at the back, potentially had his most successful season yet and would captain the side on a number of occasions. The leadership qualities that he possesses further stands him in a good stead to excel at his new club.
Prior to his move to Gateshead, Francis played for then-National League side Notts County and potentially didn’t hit the heights for the Magpies that some thought he would. He’d fall out of favour during their promotion season, being loaned out to the Heed for part of the second half, but has bounced back well since then.
It’s a bit of a punt by the Grecians given he’s not overly proven in the EFL, just 20 appearances to his name for Harrogate Town during the 2020/21 season, but it could bring plenty of rewards.
Speaking to club media upon signing with the club, the 25-year-old said:
“I’m very happy to be here, I’m really excited for the new season and I can’t wait to get started. I first heard about the interest about a month ago and I was desperate to get the deal over the line, and I’m very pleased.”
“Myself and Gary had a very good honest conversation about the club and how it was fan owned, with the connection to the fans. That is something I had last year with Gateshead, so that really suits me.
“We spoke about how he wants me to play and where I fit in, and it all really appealed to me.”
Writer’s View
Despite being unproven in the third tier, it’s a rather exciting signing for Exeter given the season that Francis had. He can operate as either a central defender or in the six and although the Grecians look to utilise him in the latter, he can still provide cover in the former.
At 25, there’s still time for him to improve and Exeter have a decent record of progressing talent. After a fine end to last season, where they’d end up in 13th, Caldwell will be hoping that his side can continue their progress next term and there’s no reason why they can’t break into the top half.
He’s a different player to the one during his time at Notts County and Francis seems to have made a good choice with the move.
