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.
5. Isaac Vassell
The 29-year-old’s been out of football for a year after being released by Cardiff City in 2022. It’s unsure whether he wants to return to football again and 92 appearances at 29 doesn’t set the heart racing but he did get a respectable return in League Two with Luton Town. | Getty Images Photo: Harry Murphy/Getty Images
6. Jonathan Afolabi
He’s not strictly a free agent but he could be in January. The 23-year-old is playing for Bohemians and has 11 goals and four assists in 27 games. The ex-Celtic and Southampton striker is out of contract in November, and he could be a reasonable signing. | Getty Images Photo: Clive Brunskill/Getty Image
7. Shane Long
Free agent after leaving Reading for a second time. The 36-year-old isn’t the same mould as Clarke-Harris, but he does have a good goal scoring record with 121 goals in professional football. | Getty Images Photo: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
8. Dom Dwyer
Born in Cuckfield which is in Sussex, Dwyer has played most of his career in the MLS. The 33-year-old has 88 goals in the USA league, but could he at all consider a short spell in England? | Getty Images Photo: Jim Rogash/Getty Images