The international break is now behind us, and many clubs are looking forward to the autumn period.
However, there are still a host of clubs struggling to find players with gaps in their squad. This is particularly the case in League Two, where clubs are often at the bottom of the food chain and find missing out on targets more likely than those higher up the divisions.
That’s why the free agent market is so interesting. In League Two, clubs often need know-how and experience as much as youth and excitement. Look at David McGoldrick at Notts County – still a behemoth after all these years.
Is another ‘Didzy’ hiding away in the free agent market, waiting to be snapped up? We’ve got five experienced players whose age might scream ‘no’, but who could be the difference in League Two this season for those with the means?
Cameron Jerome
Cameron Jerome is a well-known striker with extensive experience in the English football leagues. Having played for clubs such as Birmingham City, Stoke City, and Norwich City, Jerome has built a reputation as a hard-working forward with an eye for goal. After a successful stint abroad with Turkish club Göztepe, he returned to England, playing for Bolton Wanderers most recently. Jerome’s physical presence and experience could offer a valuable attacking option for a League One side looking for leadership and a proven goal scorer. Though at 37, his best days might be behind him, Jerome’s understanding of the English game and work ethic could help him contribute in a mentorship role as well.
Joe Jacobson
A versatile left-back, Joe Jacobson enjoyed a long career with Wycombe Wanderers, where he was a crucial part of their rise to the Championship. Jacobson is known for his set-piece ability, having scored several goals directly from corners. His composure in defence and leadership qualities made him a stalwart for Wycombe. Now a free agent, Jacobson, aged 37, still has the experience to contribute at the League One level. A club needing a steady, experienced left-back could benefit from Jacobson’s football intelligence and set-piece prowess.
Sam Hutchinson
Sam Hutchinson, formerly of Reading and Sheffield Wednesday, is a versatile defensive midfielder who can also play in defence. Known for his tough tackling and leadership, Hutchinson was a key figure in Reading’s midfield. His experience at a high level, including stints in the Championship and Premier League with Chelsea, makes him an attractive option for League One sides in need of a midfield enforcer. Despite being 34, Hutchinson’s work rate and determination could still provide a stabilising presence in midfield for teams battling for promotion or survival.
Martyn Waghorn
Martyn Waghorn is a proven goal scorer with experience in the Championship and Premier League. Having most recently played for Derby County, Waghorn has shown that he can still perform at a high level, netting seven goals in 24 appearances last season. At 33, Waghorn could be a valuable addition for a League One side needing a clinical finisher. Known for his ability to play both centrally and out wide, his versatility and goal-scoring instincts could prove crucial for a side looking to bolster their attack.
Ryan Bennett
Ryan Bennett is a seasoned centre-back with vast experience in the Championship and Premier League. Bennett has had stints with clubs like Norwich City and Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he played a key role in Wolves’ promotion to the Premier League. Most recently with Cambridge United, Bennett is known for his leadership and aerial dominance. At 33, he would be a solid defensive addition for any League One side looking to add experience and solidity at the back.
These players are still free agents and could provide valuable experience and leadership to any League One club looking to strengthen key areas of their squad.
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