Freddie Draper
I know this one will get some attention. How can I shout about a striker who isn’t in double figures? Easy. Freddie Draper can emulate Jovon Makama and move for more than £1m. He might even be the surprise package of the Championship next season.
Freddie is only 21, even though it feels like he’s been around for ages. His shot on target percentage is 45%, which is fifth for the under-23 age group in League One. He has seven goals from 5.61 xG according to FotMob and is in the 98th percentile for headed shots. The numbers are decent, and his goal return this season has risen. I firmly believe that, had he not limped off against Northampton, he’d be on 10 in the league.
That’s not why I think he’ll do well. Those numbers are evidence of him being capable in League One and having transferable skills for the Championship. He’s got what it takes to be a decent striker at that level in terms of goals, but that’s not Freddie’s only strength. Second-tier defenders won’t have come up against the likes of him before.
Remember Luton away and Bradford at home? He bullied experienced defenders, he’ll suit our style of play perfectly, and when fit, I believe he is the perfect number nine for Michael Skubala’s approach. Plus, he’s still just a boy, he’s learning and he’s only going to get better. Also, he’s a little bit confident. The forward roll at Reading showed that, he’s everything a striker should be, he has a bit of swagger and belief.
If he gets fit, he could be the Championship’s surprise package next season.
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