Joel Randall was left out of Peterborough United’s squad for their 3-2 defeat against Birmingham City, with manager Darren Ferguson confirming that the winger is unhappy at the club.
Randall’s exclusion capped off what was a frustrating afternoon for Peterborough United on the pitch, as they fell to an agonising 3-2 defeat against a Birmingham City side tipped for promotion.
Randall, who signed a lucrative three-year contract in the summer, has fallen out of favour due to what Ferguson described as a poor attitude in training.
“He’s not happy at the football club, he’s made that clear,” said Ferguson post-match. “His attitude suggested that in training, so he’s not going to be part of the squad.
“We’ve just given him a contract that makes him the highest paid players at the club but now he says he’s not happy.
“I’ve had to deal with it, I’ve been consistent with it. If players don’t want to do the right things, then they won’t be part of the group.
“If he doesn’t want to train and show the right attitude, he won’t be involved. The chairman has given him a huge contract and this is the situation we’re left with.”
Peterborough took an early two-goal lead at St. Andrew’s, thanks to goals from Ricky-Jade Jones and Emmanuel Fernandez. Jones pounced on a clearance from Birmingham keeper Peacock-Farrell, sending the ball into the net within the opening four minutes. The Posh quickly doubled their advantage through Fernandez, who powered home a header from a Jadel Katongo corner after Jones had another chance saved.
The equaliser, however, had more than a touch of luck about it. Jay Stansfield’s long-range effort was heading wide before it struck Peterborough defender Oscar Wallin and deflected into the back of the net, wrong-footing goalkeeper Will Norris in the process. Birmingham’s fortunate goal seemed to shift the momentum, and Peterborough struggled to reassert their dominance.
Peterborough’s resistance broke on 66 minutes as Birmingham’s Krystian Bielik, amidst suspicions of handball, bundled in a deflected effort from a short corner. Despite a late push from Posh, including a string of corners, they couldn’t find a way back into the game. The defeat leaves Peterborough needing answers, both tactically and in terms of squad harmony.
Who is Joel Randall?
Joel Randall began his professional career at Exeter City, where he graduated from their academy and made his senior debut in 2017. After spending several years in and out of the first team, Randall became a key player for Exeter during the 2020-2021 season, scoring 10 goals in 40 appearances. His form attracted interest from several clubs, and in August 2021, Peterborough United secured his signature for a reported fee of £1.2 million.
However, Randall’s time at Peterborough has been fraught with inconsistency. Injuries and a struggle to recapture his Exeter form have limited his impact at the Weston Homes Stadium. Despite a few flashes of brilliance, including a handful of goals and assists in his first season, he failed to establish himself as a regular starter.
Randall’s potential was recognised again this summer when Peterborough handed him a new three-year contract, reportedly making him one of the club’s highest earners. Despite this, Randall has found himself on the fringes of the squad, failing to start in any of the last three games. His situation has now come to a head with Ferguson’s public criticism, casting doubt on his future at the club.
Writer’s View
For Peterborough United, the situation with Joel Randall is both perplexing and concerning. After investing heavily in him both financially and in terms of expectations, his recent form and attitude issues are a blow to a club that was banking on his potential. Losing a player of his quality—especially with such a high salary attached—could hurt both on and off the pitch, and may force Darren Ferguson to rethink his options come the January transfer window.
As for Randall, this could mark a significant turning point in his career. He needs to decide whether he wants to knuckle down and prove his worth or risk being sidelined further. The Peterborough fans know there’s talent in there, but questions remain whether Randall can handle the pressures and expectations at this level. Either way, his next few months will be crucial in shaping his career path.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
