Should we achieve our aim of promotion fans will speculate to which of our current players will cut it in the Championship. We thought we may as well go through the squad in preparation, we’ve done the defenders, now for the midfield…
MAX POWER
The skipper has performed well and has only missed four games all season whilst making himself indispensable to Lee Johnson by playing as a full back during our defensive injury crisis. Bagging four goals and three assists this season, Power’s on the ball work rate, passing ability and confidence show off just how important Max is to the squad.
Verdict: Makes the cut, he’s been ‘reinvigorated’ under Johnson as he put it himself.
CHRIS MAGUIRE
Maguire has often started on the bench, and it’s no surprise considering his inconsistencies. Despite this he has still managed to achieve one of the highest passing success rates at the club this season. Maguire has five assists and on average makes one key pass per game. He might not start every week, but he could still be a valuable member of the squad next season should we achieve promotion.
Verdict: Might make the bench but would need a year’s extension on his contract.
GEORGE DOBSON
Having played the second half season on loan to relegation threatened Wimbledon, we’ve not seen much of young George. Since getting himself sent off in the first game of the season and only making four more appearances after that before his loan, Dobson has apparently been impressive for the Dons, his tackle and interception rate is good and he’s looked like an overall solid League One player.
Verdict: Sell. Can’t see him being able to cut it in the Championship.
LYNDEN GOOCH
Gooch has been strong on the attack whether that be on the left, right or in behind the striker throughout the season. Bringing four goals and 6 assists to the table he’s put some impressive performances in, most recently against Oxford on Good Friday where he nabbed a goal and an assist. A great dribbler and good finisher he will most likely play some part in Johnson’s plans for next season.
Verdict: Makes the cut but will probably start fewer games in the Championship.
JOSH SCOWEN
Josh Scowen has been many SAFC fan’s unsung hero this season. He’s defensively sound, not wasteful on the ball but more importantly has performed preciously in the Championship and Lee Johnson absolutely loves him!
Verdict: Makes the cut, but with the midfield no doubt being strengthened, only as a squad player
ELLIOT EMBLETON
The 22-year-old has got three assists in 10 games whilst on loan at Blackpool who are also currently fighting for promotion. Out to show everyone what he can do, Embleton has put in some good performances for the Seasiders whilst knowing that he is still part of the project we’ve got going on as he signed a one-year extension taking his contract to the end of the 2022 season.
Verdict: Makes the cut but will have to prove his worth very early on.
JACK DIAMOND
The local lad has everyone looking to the future, especially after signing a new contract which keeps him at the club until 2024. Diamond who is 21 has one goal and two assists in 18 league appearances, half of which have been 15-minute stints toward the end of a game. His decision making isn’t always great but his pace, dribbling and finishing all show how talented he is.
Verdict: Makes the cut as he should eventually come good, may need another loan for game time.
GRANT LEADBITTER
Leadbitter has been a valuable member of our squad this season, still showing quality when called upon, even if his mobility is dropping off. Grant’s contract is up at the end of the season and it would be nice to see his offered a coaching role.
Verdict: May retire, but could be a fantastic influence if we offer him a coaching role.
CARL WINCHESTER
Another player who brings energetic runs from midfield, our January signing is a versatile player who can play in the middle or on the right side of midfield or right back. A decent passer of the ball and tipped to be a good Championship player by his former managers, Winchester could be a versatile asset next season.
Verdict: Makes the cut as a squad player
JORDAN JONES
10 appearances, two goals and four assists, the on-loan Rangers winger has been a great addition. He’s brilliant going forward, making some great runs and can pass a ball with ease. Some reports suggest he wants to permanently leave the Gers and could be available for £600,000, a price we’re sure the club would be willing to pay.
Verdict: Sign him! Could be a huge player next season.
AIDEN MCGEADY
McGeady is currently tied for most assists (12) in the league with Peterborough’s Joe Ward and former player George Honeyman. His contract runs out at the end of the season but signing on for a season in the Championship could help solidify us in the Second Division.
Verdict: Definitely makes the cut if he signs a new deal. Will no doubt play less…
