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Despite my sterling efforts on behalf of eleven destitute footballers, life remains tough for these unfortunate contributors to their countries' unemployment figures. Just two so far have had successful outcomes to their job searches. Centre forward Danny Welbeck signed for Brighton & Hove Albion on a one year deal.

It would be nice to think he can keep injury free; he has the talent to score goals for them.

And right back Nathaniel Clyne has signed a short term deal with Crystal Palace.

Centre back James Collins has decided to call it a day at the age of 37 and has retired from playing football and to "move on to my next chapter in life." Good luck for the future, James.

I still have hopes for the other eight from the original team but the question now arises whether I should replace these three with others who are available.

I think so. Here they are.

Antonio Valencia. 35. Right back. Ecuadorian international, 98 caps. Ex Wigan and Manchester United. 325 Premier League appearances, 23 goals. No history of long term injuries.

Adrian Mariappa. 34. Centre back. Jamaican international, 49 caps. Ex Reading, Crystal Palace, Watford. 168 Premier League appearances. Virtually injury free career.

Alexandre Pato. 31. Centre forward. Brazilian international, 27 caps, 10 goals. Ex AC Milan, Chelsea, Villareal. 117 Serie A appearances, 51 goals. Intermittent short term injuries only.