The ‘Holy Trinity’ of George Boyd, Craig Mackail-Smith and Aaron Mclean are prime examples, but they don’t all work out quite so well.
Here are a selection of good and bad signings from the non-league game. We’ve ignored the aforementioned Trinity as they’ve had millions of words written about them over the years, and also only included players who were signed direct from non-league clubs.
Can you think of any we have missed out?
5. GOOD - LEE TOMLIN
An attacking genius signed from Rushden & Diamonds in August 2010. A promotion-winning star in the 2010-11 season. Went on to make big money moves to Middlesbrough, Bournemouth, Bristol City and Cardiff. Had a second spell at Posh in 2019. Over 175 appearances for the club and 45 goals. Photo: david lowndes
6. BAD - JORDAN NICHOLSON
A Graham Westley signing from Nuneaton in July, 2015 who made just two sub appearances for Posh. The winger went on to perform more regularly for Peterborough Sports among others. Photo: Joe Dent
7. GOOD - MARCUS MADDISON
A superb attacking player signed from Gateshead for £250k in August, 2014. Carried some bang average sides. Sadly went off the rails after 249 Posh appearances and 61 goals and left on a free transfer to Charlton in 2020. Photo: Joe Dent
8. BAD - CALLUM CHETTLE
Another poor recruit from Nuneaton for Graham Westley. A defender/midfielder who arrived in January 2016 and left for Alfreton 2 years later after just seven starts for Posh. Photo: s