Here Elliot Takes A Look at 5 Free Agents he believes are deserving of a League One move.
1. Randell Williams
After joining Leyton Orient from Bolton Wanderers in January, Williams was subsequently released by the O’s at the end of the season, appearing 17 times for Orient, contributing 2 goals and an assist. Despite putting up low numbers throughout his career, the 28-year-old has showcased his talent on multiple occasions as a Versatile wide player on either side. Â
Williams is known for his sharpness and his ability to take on defenders, with a wand of a left foot for delivering crosses or taking on shots from range. Whilst his spell at Leyton orient didn’t go particularly smooth sailing, he proved he was more than good enough to compete at the top end of League One with standout performances against Wycombe, Mansfield and Stockport, showing he would be worth a look for any side aiming to push for the Play-offs.
My recommendation: RotherhamÂ
2. Donovan Pines
There are mixed opinions about the ability of Pines after his time at Barnsley. The Centre-Back was released after coming to Oakwell in 2023, playing 31 times scoring 4 goals for The Tykes.
The 6ft 4in defender had just made his mark at Barnsley before picking up a thigh injury which ruled him out for the end of the 2023/2024 season. Once returning from this injury, his performances began to deteriorate, and Barnsley fans felt he was no longer good enough to play at the higher end of League One.
However, if he wants to continue playing in the EFL instead of a return to the MLS, I feel he could do a cracking job for a mid-table side. A 62%-win rate in his arial duels last season, alongside a 79.7% pass accuracy prove he deserves another chance in the English Leagues in my books.
My Recommendation: MansfieldÂ
3. Aaron McGowan
Despite being offered a new contract at Northampton Town, the Right-Back made it clear he wanted to move closer to his home in Liverpool. In his 4 years at Sixfields, McGowan proved he is easily good enough to compete with any winger in the league. A vice-captain at The Cobblers, McGowan was a key part of the side that survived relegation for a second successive season, making 35 appearances across the season, not only as a Right-Back but also as a wide Centre-Back when Town deployed a 3-at-the-back formation.
McGowan offers a brilliant defensive skillset as well as a composed outlet on the ball. This partnering his brilliant leadership skills and his ability to connect with the fans and community make him a desirable pickup for any club in League One.
My recommendation: WiganÂ
4. Pelly Ruddock-Mpanzu
The energetic Midfielder has been released from Luton Town after 12 years at the club, after spending the last 6 months on loan at Rotherham United. He made 18 appearances for The Millers, impressing with his high-level intensity and passing range. His skillset allows him to be effective in transition, creating lots of counter-attacking opportunities for any side in League One.
With experience across the top 5 tiers of English football, the 31-year-old still offers a consistent and intelligent body in the midfield who can help to mentor younger players coming through. A player who won’t be short of admirers.
My recommendation: PeterboroughÂ
5. Kyle Edwards
Since contributing to Ipswich’s promotion from League One in the 2022/2023 season Edwards has struggled to perform consistently due to a string of injuries, making just 20 league appearances in the last 3 seasons. However, when fit, Edwards boasts plenty of pace and direct impact when playing on the wing. He offers flexibility in wide areas as well as being capable of playing a number 10 role as well and has shown his ability to make an instant impact off the bench for sides.
After a trial at Northampton Town during pre-season, manager Kevin Nolan felt he was not the profile of winger he wanted at Sixfields, despite showing his creativity and directness on the left flank. If anyone can keep him fit, at just 27-years old he could be a shrewd pick up for many sides at the lower end of League One.
My recommendation: Port ValeÂ
This article shows just a tiny fraction of some of the free agents still available, do you think any of these could do a job at your club? And do you think there are any other big free agents still out there? Let me know in the comments!
