The curse of Micky Mellon
While it has been a bit quiet recently, my thoughts wandered to Rovers old boys and how they fared after leaving us. In particular, the ones who left after their contract ended having turned down an extension. I've picked out the seven who left since Micky Mellon joined us. The first six have not had much luck and most may have done better to stay with us.
Michael Ihiekwe went to Rotherham, had a good first season but finished last year on loan to Accrington. Although I think he's still on their books, Rotherham were relegated to the same league as us. So at the age of 26, he will be playing at the same level as us next season.
After an up-down career at Prenton Park, Cole Stockton was on fire at the end of 2016/17 when he left to join Hearts. A miserable year followed and even returning to PP did nothing for his form.
Eddie Clarke was becoming a regular in 2017/18, but chose to move to Fleetwood and has only played twice since in the league. Next season we will be playing his club, but he may not even make their team.
James Wallace has now left us twice, the last time to go to Fleetwood also, but has not played much because of injury.
Lois Maynard decided to move down a league to join Salford. While he has featured regularly for them, he will still be playing in the league below.
Andy Cook was Walsall's leading scorer last season but his team swapped leagues with us. Although he has now moved to Mansfield, he will still be playing in the division below us next season.
So, all six have had problems since leaving us. While some may have made a bit more money, as of now none have made much (if any) progress in their careers. It's almost as if they have been cursed for turning their back on Micky and the SWA. I am sure it is co-incidental. At least I hope so, as the seventh player is James Norwood. I am sure we would all wish him better fortune than the other six.