The next free agent to fall under our microscope is experienced striker James Scowcroft.
The next free agent to fall under our microscope is experienced striker James Scowcroft
James Scowcroft is a powerful frontman who has been fortunate to grace the top two tiers of English football for the vast majority of his career. Having burst onto the scene at Ipswich, he was able to earn five England Under 21 caps during his days at Portman Road. Since then he has proven to be a regular source of goals, although his game is as much about laying on chances for others as it is about taking them himself.
Is it worrying being an out of contract player in the current climate or is that now part and parcel of a footballer's career?
It is a concern but you have to accept it. The way football has gone over recent years, contracts are getting shorter and shorter. That's something that every player outside of the top division has to deal with.
More and more players are dropping into the free agent market every year, is that an issue the authorities need to address?
I am sure the list gets bigger and bigger every year. The way the current financial market is, especially in football, there is no sign of that coming down. I don't really know the answer but it's something you have to get on with. It's hard if you haven't got something but I'm 34 now and I can't complain. Ten years ago I was signing four-year contracts and that was the norm. Longer contracts do give you security and help you settle, while if you get a one-year contract every year it can be unsettling.
What is your mindset heading into the summer, are you just looking to sit tight?
There is only so much you can do. I have been in this position a couple of times now and I think this time of year the whole football world goes away and takes a break. I am sure clubs chase the same player and then realise that the player is not available so they go for other targets. It's about being patient. If you are good enough you will find yourself a club. Players that are out of contract, their contracts will not finish until the end of July anyway so they have that bit of security.
Do you have any idea as to the standard you are aiming at and what level you would like to play?
I am coming towards the end of my career now so I just want to carry on playing. I am far too young to stop playing and I feel good in myself. It's about being in the shop window and if someone wants you, they want you.
What do you feel you would offer prospective employers? What do you feel are your best attributes?
You can't buy experience, you can't get it on the training ground. Over the years there are certain situations that you have been in before and you know how to deal with it better than when you were younger. I think the game is getting younger and managers and clubs are looking for younger players all the time. But there is still a position out there for experienced players.
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.
