Experienced Goalkeeper Jamal Blackman is on trial at League Two newcomers Chesterfield, according to the Derbyshire Times.
The 30-year-old is currently a free agent after being released by League One outfit Burton Albion at the end of last season. Blackman made only eight appearances in his spell at the Brewers, serving as backup throughout the 2023-24 campaign.
Blackman came through Chelsea’s academy as a youngster but failed to make an appearance at Stamford Bridge, instead being sent out on several loan spells. Following his release and a stint at MLS club Los Angeles FC, Blackman signed for Huddersfield Town, playing once before a switch to Exeter City where he was first choice in the 2022-23 season. A move to Burton then followed, where he has spent the last campaign.
Chesterfield are currently in the market for a man between the sticks, with Ryan Boot the only senior goalkeeper on the books at the club at the moment. Boot served as second choice to loanee Harry Tyrer in the club’s successful 2023-24 season, so the Spireites will be looking for another first-choice, with Blackman clearly courting interest. They had previously had Sam Hornby on trial, but he has since signed for League Two rivals Walsall.
Chesterfield head into the 2024-25 season facing their first Football League campaign since 2018 after a National League campaign which saw them win promotion at a canter under manager Paul Cook, following several seasons of near misses.
The Derbyshire outfit have been busy in the off-season as they look to prepare for League Two, securing the services of EFL veterans such as striker Paddy Madden and defender Chey Dunkley. The club have also been successful on the field, recently beating Championship side Derby County 4-0 in a pre-season friendly. Chesterfield are, therefore, considered by many as a team to watch this season, and the potential signing of Blackman will only strengthen that thought.
Writer’s View
If successful, this is a move that suits both parties. Blackman needs a settled period at a club as first-choice, and with only one senior goalkeeper at Chesterfield, this seems like a sensible move, with League Two looking like a good level for the player. The club will also be looking for EFL experience, with goalkeeper being a position they need to strengthen, so Blackman ticks plenty of boxes.
