Stockport County have made an impressive start to their League One campaign, adjusting effortlessly to life in the third tier. Under the guidance of manager Dave Challinor, the Hatters have emerged victorious against Cambridge United, Blackpool, and Bristol Rovers, continuing their momentum from recent successful seasons. The club’s rise through the leagues has been nothing short of remarkable, with back-to-back promotions demonstrating their growth and potential.
However, as the season progresses, Stockport County faces the challenge of potential departures next summer, with several key players nearing the end of their contracts. This looming uncertainty could impact the club’s plans as they look to solidify their position in League One.
Players Facing Contract Expiration
Among those who may be on their way out if no new deals are agreed are some of the club’s most influential figures:
Louie Barry: The forward, who rejoined Stockport on loan from Aston Villa, has made a significant impact with three goals in the opening matches of the season. His performance echoes the form he displayed last season, where he scored 13 goals. Barry’s loan move has proven to be a masterstroke by Challinor, but with his current deal set to expire next summer, the club will be keen to negotiate a longer-term arrangement if they wish to retain his services.
Tayo Adaramola: Another loan addition, Adaramola joined from Crystal Palace with high expectations. Unfortunately, an injury during a pre-season match has sidelined him for the early part of the season, limiting his impact so far. The young defender’s performance upon his return will be crucial in determining whether Stockport will look to extend his stay beyond this season.
Tyler Onyango: The Everton starlet joined County on loan for the season and has shown promise, albeit primarily from the bench. With his potential still untapped, Onyango’s development and contributions in the coming months could influence whether Stockport will seek to secure him for a longer period or explore other options.
Callum Camps: Camps, who moved to Stockport from Fleetwood Town in the summer of 2022, is now in the final year of his three-year contract. The 28-year-old midfielder has been a reliable presence in the team, with his dominant performances contributing significantly to the club’s solid start in League One. The decision to offer him a contract extension will likely depend on his continued form and the club’s strategic priorities.
Will Collar: Collar has been with Stockport since their National League days, emerging as a key player capable of producing moments of magic from midfield. Despite suffering from injury issues in the previous season, Collar has started this campaign strongly. His current contract, which was extended in 2022, is set to expire next summer, and the club will need to weigh his recent performances against the potential benefits of a new deal.
Fraser Horsfall: The imposing defender, who joined from Northampton Town in 2022, has been a cornerstone of the defense with over 80 league appearances for the club. As he enters the final year of his contract, the club will have to decide whether to extend his stay or look for alternative defensive options.
Kyle Knoyle: Knoyle, a dynamic fullback, was a key player before an injury in January last season curtailed his appearances. The 27-year-old’s season has been affected by further injury issues, which might influence the club’s decision regarding his future at Edgeley Park. His current two-and-a-half-year deal, signed in January 2023, will expire next summer.
Ibou Touray:The left-sided player, who joined from Salford City, has been instrumental in County’s recent success, contributing ten goals in their League Two title-winning campaign. His two-year deal, ending in June 2025, will need to be reassessed if the club aims to retain his services beyond the end of his contract.
Jack Stretton: Stretton’s return to Stockport was highly anticipated after a successful loan spell. However, an ACL injury kept him sidelined for the entirety of last season. Now back in action, the 23-year-old will need to prove his fitness and value to the team to secure an extension on his current deal, which runs until the summer of 2025.
Macauley Southam-Hales: Having been a part of the club since their non-league days, Southam-Hales has made over 100 appearances. His recent one-year contract extension will provide him the opportunity to impress in League One and potentially earn a longer-term deal.
Max Metcalfe: The young goalkeeper joined on a one-year development contract but has struggled to secure regular appearances due to the presence of more established keepers. His future at the club will depend on his ability to break into the first team or provide value as a development player.
As Stockport County continues their campaign, the club’s management will face crucial decisions regarding these expiring contracts. The goal will be to balance securing key players with the need for strategic improvements and financial prudence. With their strong start to the season, County will aim to maintain their momentum while navigating these potential changes in the squad.
The club’s success in League One will depend not only on their current form but also on their ability to manage their roster effectively and plan for the future. The coming months will be pivotal in shaping Stockport County’s strategy as they strive to consolidate their position in the third tier and build for continued success.
