The transfer window may have come to a close but clubs can still bolster their squad with free agents and the list contains some famous names.
Admittedly the majority of these players are the wrong side of 30 and you would guess they are free agents for a reason. However, a number of them have offer a wealth of international experience.
Of course these players are not going to come in and inspire a club to glory, they may not even be lucky enough to get a chance, but their experience could be invaluable as a squad player or on a short term deal.
Craig Gordon
- Having signed for Sunderland for a then British record fee for a goalkeeper, his time at the Stadium of Light was marred by injuries. But Gordon is a good ‘keeper and could be a real bargain for some clubs. Celtic, Hull and Southampton have all expressed and interest. At his best he is better than Kelvin Davis so Southampton is a possible destination.
Nigel Reo- Coker
- Activated a release clause to leave relegated Bolton, where he was one of their better performers last season.His tireless work rate and his simple passing game makes him a solid midfield option. Has proved he can perform in the Premier League and at 28 is an attractive option as a free agent. Will not command the interest of bigger clubs but Fulham, who are short of experienced options in the middle may take a punt on him.
John Mensah
- Thought to be close to joining West Ham who he has been training with while without a club. Hapoel Tel Aviv are also interested but the Ghanian is keen on a move to the Hammers. An uncompromising centre half, who was not at his best at Sunderland, would provide Sam Allardyce with good competition at the back.
Thomas Hitzelsperger
- The German international with a cannon of a left foot was released by Wolfsburg. Having proven himself in the Premier League he may attract interest from England. May wish to remain in his native Germany and a lesser known Bundesliga side could profit from this.
Eidur Gudjohnsen
- Currently on trial with MLS outfit Seattle Sounders. The 34-year-old did perhaps not have the desired impact at Stoke but he is an extremely talented player. Possesses great footballing intelligence and given his experience still has something to offer. Should a move to the USA not materialise could Owen Coyle try and tempt him back to Bolton?
James McFadden
- Released by Everton, the forward has made it clear he is willing to listen to any offers. Spent the summer training with former club Motherwell but was unable to agree personal terms with them. However, McFadden knows he needs first team football and may strive to come to an agreement at Fir Park if he receives no other offers.
Owen Hargreaves
- Who will be willing to take a risk on the injury prone midfielder. Fit and at his best he has a lot to offer, he reads the game well and as a holding midfielder uses the ball well enough in the transition from defence to attack. With only Oriol Romeu and John Obi Mikel as recognised defensive midfielders Chelsea could be tempted to bring Hargreaves in as a back up on a short term deal. Given their financial standing, like with Manchester City, the financial risk is much less.
Harry Kewell
- At 33, Kewell is looking to extend his career. Despite injury problems his is blessed with great technique and could potentially still cut it in the Premier League. However, he has been linked with a move to Blackburn and a top end Championship club does seem likely. Does not have the pace he once had but has the ability to be an effective force in the second tier.
John Carew
- The 33-year-old may be an attractive option for a team looking for an experienced target man. It’s yet unclear how accurate the rumours of Celtic’s reported interest are but as a short team option the Norwegian could prosper in the SPL.
Emile Heskey
- Blackpool, Norwich, Stoke and Espanyol have all expressed an interest in the target man, who would prefer to remain in England. Looking at their attacking options a move would seem unlikely and Heskey may have to drop down a division. Former Wigan boss Steve Bruce likes big target men and may be persuaded him bring him to Hull.
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Are you sure – Chelsea clearing older, injuerd players out to take on sicknote Hargreaves?
What about Drogba and Anelka there r two players that go to the top of the list
John Floris, Drogba and Anelka are not free agents, they stay with Shenhai Shenua despite all the financial and exit rumors. I can’t see Chelsea signing Hargreaves, but I do agree we could use a short term backup until McEachren is back, from this list I wouldn’t mind if we got Reo-Coker or Hitzelsperger, and if we really need a backup striker..Gudjohnson and Carrew still has class and lots of Premier League experience. We just let go of Meireles and have Malouda who can also play in central midfield who RDM don’t want and then there’s Ferreira as well who is unwanted so I don’t see Chelsea signing anyone more if we want to get rid of more players, it doesn’t make sence. (Just for thought, I’m ashamed of the way Malouda and Ferreira are treated, just like Alex and Anelka!!!!)