Southend United chief Steve Wignall has travelled up to the other end of the country to get a headstart on the free transfer merry-go-round.
Wignall revealed today he had visited the Professional Football Association's headquarters in Manchester to take a peek at the official retained list.
"I went to look at the list and see what players are about," he said.
"You're not allowed to take the list away, it isn't complete yet as it doesn't get published until June 2, but I jotted down a lot of names.
"I must have circled about 20 players I would be interested in, six or seven of which were goalkeepers, and it has been a very worthwhile exercise.
"There were about 500 players on the list and I had already seen most of them on faxes sent to Roots Hall by other clubs, but it was handy being able to cross-reference."
Having seen the list, albeit in an early form, Wignall believes it will be something of a buyer's market this summer, with many players struggling to find a club.
"One thing is for certain though, if I was a player out of work at the moment I wouldn't be sitting on the fence biding my time," he said.
More on Southend United FC
What are your views on Southend? Have your say on our Views on the Blues bulletin board.
Published Friday, May 23, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article