EFL’s Over 30 Stars: Key Players Ready for 2024/25 Season

Where Are They Playing Now? EFL Stars to Watch for the 2024/25 Season

As the football season approaches, many fans are eager to know where their favorite players are taking the pitch. This year, the English Football League (EFL) will see numerous notable figures from the Championship, League One, and League Two, all preparing for an exciting season ahead. Sky Sports has identified 30 familiar names returning to action, and here's a closer look at some of them.

Championship Stars

Joe Allen (34, Swansea City)

Joe Allen is set to finish his career at Swansea City, demonstrating his skills even at 34. With a history at Liverpool and Stoke City, Allen has played 44 games across two seasons for the Swans and signed a new one-year deal in May.

Nahki Wells (34, Bristol City)

The experienced Nahki Wells has made a name for himself in the EFL, particularly at Bristol City. He has consistently featured in over 30 matches per season since the 2020/21 season, netting seven goals last term, ranking as the Robins' second-highest scorer.

Nathaniel Mendez-Laing (32, Derby County)

Mendez-Laing is riding high after an impressive season with Derby where he was named in the League One Team of the Season. He scored nine goals and assisted 16, making his mark during Derby's promotion campaign.

Barry Bannan (34, Sheffield Wednesday)

An iconic figure at Sheffield Wednesday, Barry Bannan enters his tenth season with the club. His 42 appearances last season helped the team narrowly escape relegation, bringing his total to an impressive 376 league games.

Grant Hanley (32, Norwich City)

Scottish international Grant Hanley is keen to make an impact for Norwich City following a tough season. After a playoff loss to Leeds, he will strive for improvement in the 2024/25 season.

Luke Ayling (32, Middlesbrough)

In a surprising move, Luke Ayling transferred to Middlesbrough after a successful tenure at Leeds. He made a solid impression during his loan period and is set to be a crucial player as the club seeks promotion.

Marlon Pack (33, Portsmouth)

Marlon Pack's return to Portsmouth culminated in a successful promotion campaign, where he showcased his leadership skills as captain. Now competing in the Championship, Pack aims to make a significant contribution.

Will Keane (31, Preston North End)

After a stint at Wigan, Will Keane returned to Preston, where he played all 38 Championship games last season and looks to continue his positive trajectory.

League One Veterans

Lukas Jutkiewicz (35, Birmingham)

After several seasons in the Championship, Jutkiewicz's experience will be invaluable to Birmingham as they aim for an immediate return following their drop to League One.

Alfie May (31, Birmingham)

May arrives at Birmingham after being crowned League One Golden Boot winner last season with Charlton, and hopes to replicate that elite scoring form.

James McClean (35, Wrexham)

Wrexham’s rise continues and James McClean played a key role in their promotions. His ability to contribute on the pitch is crucial as they move up to League One.

Chris Martin (35, Bristol Rovers)

Returning for a successful run with Bristol Rovers, Martin's 16 goals last season further solidified his reputation as an experienced EFL forward.

Scott Malone (33, Crawley Town)

Malone’s significant Championship experience will play a key role for Crawley as they navigate their League One journey.

Josh Magennis (33, Exeter City)

Magennis has made a name for himself in League One and will be looking to enhance his scoring tally after joining Exeter City this summer.

Jonathan Hogg (35, Huddersfield)

Hogg's reliable performance and leadership will be essential for Huddersfield as they look to secure their place back in the Championship.

Aden Flint (35, Mansfield)

Having played a vital role in Mansfield's promotion, Flint's defensive skills will bolster the team as they adapt to League One.

Steven Fletcher (37, Wrexham)

Fletcher's Championship experience could be invaluable for Wrexham in what will be his first spell in League One this season.

Sam Vokes (34, Wycombe Wanderers)

Vokes has proven pivotal for Wycombe in recent seasons. His experience and goal-scoring ability will be put to the test again as they aim for a play-off position.

League Two Performers

Dean Lewington (40, MK Dons)

Lewington is set to enter his 21st season with MK Dons, showcasing his dedication and leadership on the field.

Byron Webster (37, Bromley)

Captaining Bromley in their inaugural EFL season, defender Webster brings vast experience to the squad.

Jayden Stockley (30, Port Vale)

Stockley, joining from Fleetwood, aims to recapture his scoring form reminiscent of his successful time at Exeter.

David McGoldrick (36, Notts County)

Returning for a third spell at Notts County, McGoldrick will look to make a significant impact as he pursues more career milestones.

Billy Sharp (38, Doncaster)

Sharp is back at Doncaster, hoping to contribute to the team's aspirations of climbing back up the leagues.

James Chester (35, Salford)

Bringing experience from several clubs, Chester's presence could enhance Salford's performance this season.

Will Grigg (33, Chesterfield)

Grigg returns to the EFL, following a stellar goal-scoring season that saw Chesterfield promoted from the National League.

Paddy Madden (34, Chesterfield)

Madden also joins Chesterfield after rising from the National League, adding depth to their attacking options.

Conclusion

This upcoming 2024/25 EFL season promises excitement, with several experienced players taking to the field. Whether vying for promotion or striving for stability, these football veterans will undeniably shape the landscape of the EFL. Keep an eye on your team as they embark on this thrilling journey!

For more information and live updates, be sure to catch the action on Sky Sports!