Stockport County have identified Bolton Wanderers defender William Forrester as a potential replacement for Championship target Ethan Pye.
Pye has been the subject of ongoing interest from clubs in the second tier, and should he leave this summer – Stockport would need to act fast to ensure they aren’t left behind.
One potential name has been reportedly identified and it could be Bolton’s second defensive exit with George Thomason also been linked with a departure.
Forrester to Stockport?
As reported by journalist Alan Nixon, Stockport County have identified Bolton’s William Forrester as a potential replacement, after he slipped down the pecking order at the League One side.
Forrester is reportedly fighting for his spot at Bolton but could be offered a route out of the club and earn more minutes with Dave Challinor’s side.
He is currently under contract at the League One side until June 2026, following his arrival from Port Vale in 2023 and therefore has a decision to make with less than 12 months left on his deal.
How did he fare last season?
The 24-year-old had a very good season with Port Vale, leading to his love to Bolton but since his arrival, game time has been an issue for him largely due to ongoing injury problems.
During his debut campaign, Forrester made just 22 appearances across all competitions and contributed just one goal.
Last season, Forrester did improve on that appearance figure – but still only managed 26 outings for the club with 23 of them arriving in League One alone though this time he didn’t manage any goals or assists.
His lack of minutes continues to fuel speculation regarding his future.
How do Forrester & Pye compare?
Pye is two years younger than Forrester and managed almost double the appearances last season for Stockport County.
When you compare their statistics head to head (baring in mind Pye made many more appearances), it is Forrester that has the better defensive statistics.
Forrester managed more clearances and more blocks as well as being dribbled past less frequently than Pye though the limited minutes would have influenced that.
Pye is also better in ground duels (3.5 wins vs 1.8) but Forrester is stronger in the air (5.0 wins vs 3.9).
The main difference between the two is that Pye is left-footed whilst Forrester is right-footed, but the Bolton man has played a handful of matches at left centre-back which certainly suits Stockport.
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