The next free agent to fall under our microscope is former Man Utd midfielder Sam Hewson.
The next free agent to fall under our microscope is former Man Utd midfielder Sam Hewson
Sam Hewson is a product of the famed academy ranks at Manchester United, ensuring that he has had the best possible grounding in the game. With competition for places notoriously fierce at Old Trafford, he has been unable to force his way into Sir Alex Ferguson's plans. He has, however, showcased his considerable talents during loan spells at Hereford and Bury, while he has also turned out for England at U19 level.
Is it worrying being an out of contract player in the current climate or is it part and parcel of modern football?
In my own personal situation it has actually helped me as my club (Manchester United) won't be entitled to young player compensation. So that opens a few doors, but yes being out of contract can be worrying at times.
Is it an issue that needs to be addressed, as more and more players are dropping into the free agent market every summer?
I've seen so many players come and go over the years at United and at other clubs I've got friends at. But I think this summer it feels different, I hear people talking of the credit crunch and clubs reducing squads so it'll be interesting to see who goes where after the World Cup.
How do you approach the summer, what is your mindset, is it just a case of sitting tight?
This is the first time in my whole career I've been out of contract so it's all new to me. For me, I'll go on holiday to have a break and come back motivated and ready for a new challenge with a new club.
Do you have any preference as to the standard you are looking at, are you thinking I want to play at this or that level?
I'm open minded, I've seen some big managers go to lower league clubs who I'd love to work with and some young managers with great passion and very good careers. I'm sure most players can learn from those. At the moment I've thought about going abroad to get some experience in Italy or Spain. During my loan spell in League One I really enjoyed my football, so I'll just have to wait and see.
Would you be prepared to relocate? Is that something you have to put up with now as you have to go where the contracts are?
I've been offered a couple of trials in the Greek Super League, MLS and Serie B but my family are in England so ideally I'd like to stay here.
Confident you will get something sorted, it's still early days?
Last season wasn't my best season due to a couple of injuries. I had keyhole surgery on my groin which in turn affected my back so now I'm able to train properly with no niggles I'm confident, with a good pre-season with the right club, I'll be able to kick on next season and play some good football. It wasn't long ago United were turning down approaches for me.
What do you feel you offer prospective employers, what are your best attributes?
I love getting forward and attacking, and I've always added a few goals each season. My passing and distribution is probably my best asset but late on at United I developed the defensive side of my game and enjoyed holding the midfield. I was made (U18) captain a few times and played for England U19s so I'd like to think I could bring responsibility and a hard work ethic.
To see the full list of players currently available as free agents, provided by the PFA,
click here.
Febian Brandy is a client of Jamie Holsgrove, an FA licensed and Fifa registered agent. His details are as follows:
One Sport Ltd.
Pall Mall Court
61-67 King Street
Manchester
M2 4PD
We would like to hear your thoughts on the best free transfers out there. Who should we be talking to? Who are this summer's bargains? Who should your club be targeting?
Maybe you are a player that would like to be featured, or an agent looking to get a client fixed up for next season.
To offer your suggestions fill in the feedback form or email chris.burton@bskyb.com or
james.riach@bskyb.com.
