Charlie Colkett joins Ostersunds FK in permanent transfer

After being recalled from his unproductive loan spell at Shrewsbury Town, academy graduate midfielder, Charlie Colkett is now a member of Swedish club, Ostersunds FK. Not on a loan deal, though, he’s been granted a permanent move this time.

In a parallel universe, Colkett has had an excellent last two-and-a-half years, getting plenty of quality minutes on loan and is being considered as an option in the ‘regista’ role for next season. But alas, things as we know them, have gone the complete opposite way. Colkett simply hasn’t caught a break and struggled with a dangerous cocktail of injuries and lack of minutes at Bristol Rovers, Swindon Town, Vitesse Arnhem and finally Shrewsbury.

The 22-year-old has clearly always been blessed with natural ability on the ball possessed by few at Cobham over the years. However, his skill-set has made it rather difficult to find clubs that suit him stylistically, in the lower rungs of English football. Of course, an injury-filled spell at Vitesse that effectively saw him miss out on a whole season of football didn’t help either. The situation is reminiscent of that of Josh McEachran, who’s finally found somewhat of a fit at Brentford, transferring permanently in 2015.

Colkett’s transfer to Ostersunds, whom we know from their famous Europa League run under Graham Potter, is a bold move for the player but one that could pay rich dividends. A complete reality shift could be just what he needs in order to really get his career going. The Swedish outfit are under English management even following Potter’s departure to Swansea City, and feature a number of English players among the ranks. The likes of Ken Sema and Saman Ghoddos have made their way to the Premier League and Ligue 1 respectively after impressing at Ostersunds, proving that there’s still hope yet for Charlie.

At this point, minutes and confidence are all he needs. Here’s to big things yet to come from our once-coveted starlet. Good luck in Sweden, Charlie!