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.
9. Nathan Delfouneso
Another striker that fans of English football will know having been at Aston Villa and Bolton. The 32-year-old was last at AFC Fylde in the National League North. His best days may be behind him but his best scoring spell was in League One, and he could be a good squad option. | Getty Images Photo: Charlotte Tattersall/Getty Images
10. Lewis Grabban
The 35-year-old has been a free agent since leaving Al-Ahli in January. Grabban has mainly scored in the Championship but did play 137 games in the third tier with 29 goals for Nottingham Forest. | Getty Images Photo: Dan Istitene/Getty Images
11. Lyle Taylor
It’s surprising the 33-year-old is still a free agent. He was good for Birmingham City in the 21/22 campaign but last year he played just one game at Nottingham Forest. He’s got 50 goals in 197 games in League One - the most in his career - and so if Rovers can persuade him to join, he’d be a good signing. | Getty Images Photo: Chris Brunskill/Getty Images
12. Jay Emmanuel Thomas of
Alright… Another ex-Bristol City player on this list, but that hasn’t stopped James Wilson or Jack Hunt. JET is a free agent after a spell in India. He’s big in stature and could be considered a respectable short-term option. | Getty Images Photo: Ian MacNicol/Getty Images