We spoke to Joseph Pope from the Off The Line blog, who covers the EFL and non-league football, for his suggestions on who The Shaymen might bring in
1. Jeff King
The first player on this list is one that will need no introduction to Shaymen fans; former FC Halifax Town right-back Jeff King. King was released by Chesterfield upon their promotion into the Football League and so is a free agent, leaving many in a Town persuasion dreaming of a return for the former Town defender. With rumours of Tylor Golden interesting parties at a higher level after another strong campaign, King could represent the ideal replacement for Golden. King is experienced, very much the modern-day full-back with an attacking outlook, tendency to get forward and contribute with goals and assists, and is a fans favourite at The Shay. They say don’t go back to former players, but an option like this may be too good to turn down.
2. Max Kilsby
Since The Shaymen have one of the lowest budgets in the competition, adding adaptable players who can cover several bases is practically a need. As such, their transfer business must be designed with some degree of flexibility. Kilsby fits the bill in this sense because he can play anywhere on the left side of the field, whether it be as a centre back, left back, or further forward in a midfield position. Kilsby, who was released by Carlisle United at the end of the 2023–24 season, played for Queen of the South, a team located north of the border, and has first-team experience in a league known for its physicality. Millington is a gifted coach and a highly regarded potential who could
3. Tom Crawford
Tom Crawford, a former member of the Monkeyhangers, is an option that is available and on the more experienced side and is someone the Shaymen need to bolster in the middle of the park. At the conclusion of the season, the former Pools midfielder was released. He was the most high-profile departure from Hartlepool, and fans may have been a little shocked by his departure given his continued popularity within the team. He is a dedicated, hard-working midfielder who can play at the base of the midfield and engage, but he can also get down on the ball, get sunk in, and possess the technical strength and rough diamond, selfless applicator combination that Millington appreciates. He has a great deal of expertise and is an England C cap bearer.
4. Marcus Dinanga
I am a fan of Rob Harker, thus I was surprised by the choice to release him. It’s possible that Millington wants to replace Harker with a 20–30 capable forward, in which case Marcus Dinanga would be a possibility. Dinanga, who was formerly considered one of the top forwards in the National League, has fallen out of Rob Elliot’s favour at Gateshead and is now free to go after this season ends because his contract is up. I definitely anticipate him being active, but aside from The Shaymen, I don’t see any Northern team in need of a clear new centre forward to spearhead the attack, thus the assurance of consistent
