Bringing in a 34-year-old centre-back on a free transfer may not fall within the traditional parameters of what constitutes a “statement signing”, but Bristol Rovers’ pursuit of James Wilson further indicates how important Joey Barton and his staff feel he should be in this team.
Wilson will arrive at the Mem with considerable EFL pedigree - 378 career appearances in the Championship, League One and League Two, promotions with Brentford, Sheffield United, Lincoln City and, most recently, Plymouth Argyle - on the back of one of his best seasons as a professional but, what’s significant, is all those attributes and achievements are something the Gas missed last season.
With Paul Coutts having left the club, there is a leadership void among an already young and emerging group. Wilson should step into that role and relish the opportunity to guide the squad.
