Bristol Rovers had the almost perfect summer transfer window but a last-minute hitch scuppered their plans to sign Jonson Clarke-Harris from Peterborough United.
The Gas recruited no fewer than 12 players in the summer window with some new faces as well as some familiar ones. Joey Barton has been backed well by Wael al-Qadi and new owner Hussain AlSaeed, who are both hopeful of a play-off push this season.
Rovers have started slowly and so far their only win this season was at managerless Charlton Athletic, when Luke McCormick scored with virtually the last kick of the game. Rovers are still searching for their first win at home in the league and despite dominating games, are in need of that cutting edge in the final third.
It’s not quite clicked yet for last season’s top scorer Aaron Collins, though a good showing in the EFL Trophy could be the kick start he needs. The 25-year-old scored 16 goals last term but is in need of a pick-me-up from somewhere. John Marquis has led the line too this season but he too hasn’t yet got off the mark, despite there being a few games where he probably should have scored.
In the midst of a deal for Clarke-Harris, there was a departure with Ryan Loft sold to League One rivals Port Vale. Rovers are a striker light now and could consider moving into the free agent market should rules allow them if there is squad space.
Below, we take a look at some strikers who have yet to find a home after the summer transfer window slammed shut. Some strikers had been linked with a few clubs but stayed put whilst others are hoping that a club can take a gamble on them.
What do you think? Do any of these players interest you? Or should Joey Barton work with what he’s got? Let us know by commenting on our Facebook posts or responding to us on Twitter.
1. Chris Martin
A controversial one to start off with… Martin was only at Bristol City in January, but left for QPR and then his short-term deal expired. Several League One teams have tracked him but no move has happened yet. He has 168 career goals to date in 629 appearances, and could be an upgrade on Loft. | Getty Images Photo: Harry Trump/Getty Images
2. Connor Wickham
Still without a club after leaving Cardiff City. He joined Forest Green Rovers last year on a short-term deal and chipped in with a few goals. He played in the Premier League for a few years and could be worth considering on perhaps a six-month contract. | Getty Images Photo: Gareth Copley/Getty Image
3. Loic Remy
Alright… Bit ambitious this one, but stranger things have happened… Remy was at QPR with Barton, and is known for his goal-scoring spells there, and at Newcastle United as well as Chelsea. He was last at Stade Brestois but didn’t play a single game. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: DENIS CHARLET/AFP via Getty Images
4. Gary Madine
Bit of a non-starter this one for right now as he’s still recovering but definitely someone to consider as a January alternative. Madine is sidelined with an ACL injury but once he returns could be a good shout given he’s scored goals for the likes of Blackpool, Sheffield Wednesday and Bolton Wanderers. | Getty Images Photo: Gareth Copley/Getty Images