‘All the pedigree in the world’ : Why Harrogate Town moved for ex-Manchester City and Wolves midfielder

The Sulphurites have moved to bring in former Manchester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ed Francis on a deal until the end of the season.

The 21-year-old, who has represented England at under-16-19 level has been a free agent since leaving Molyneux in October.

He was close to signing for a Championship club earlier this month, but when a deal did not materialise, Town boss Simon Weaver was quick to make his move for a player he says has “all the pedigree in the world.”

He told the Harrogate Advertiser: "We had him in training with us for three days last week and we really liked the look of him.

"I was made aware of Ed off the back of a trial he'd had at Luton. I know that they were very close to taking him on. They would have done but for circumstances at the minute.

"That's a Championship club who wanted to sign the player, which I think says it all.

"The lad has all the pedigree in the world, he's played for England under-19s, Man City, Wolves. He's very talented. He's got a lot about him.

"What he wants is the chance to establish himself playing first-team football, so we've got between now and the end of the season to have a look at him."

Francis came through Manchester City’s academy system, joining the club as a six-year-old.

He was a regular in their under-18s and under-23s sides, captaining the under-18s on occasion.

He signed for Wolves for an undisclosed fee in January 2019, but opted to leave the club in an attempt to secure himself first-team football earlier this year, despite having a contract which ran until 2021.

Although he is able to operate in defence, Weaver says he plans to use Francis primarily as a central midfielder.

"He's predominantly a central midfielder. He can slot in at centre-back, he's versatile, but for me, his best position is just sat holding in front of the back-four," the Harrogate chief added.

"He'll just add to our options in those positions. He's got strength and composure and he's elegant.

"He does things that we like. He is a good passer of the ball and won't shy away when it comes to trying to get on it and make things happen. He certainly sees a pass."