Forest Green Rovers manager Robbie Savage has announced that his summer recruitment drive is “pretty much done” following the signing of six new players.
The latest addition is full-back Sydney Agina, who joins the club on loan from Stoke City. Agina made his debut in Tuesday’s 3-1 victory over Bishop’s Cleeve, adding pace and energy to Forest Green’s defensive ranks.
Alongside Agina, the club has secured the services of Kyle Ajayi (Hemel Hempstead), Brian Ifeanyi (Carshalton), Oli Ewing (Scunthorpe), James Berry (Wycombe, loan), and Emeka Obi (Kidderminster). Ajayi, Obi, and Ifeanyi featured in the recent friendly at Bishop’s Cleeve, where Forest Green demonstrated promising performances despite an injury setback.
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Savage addressed recent rumors about squad size, emphasizing, “We have built a solid squad of 23 players. The narrative that we have hundreds is far from the truth.” He praised the club’s recruitment over the past year, stating it aligns well with the style of play he envisions.
“This summer, 17 players have left, six have joined, and we believe our recruitment is complete for now,” Savage added. “If some players go out on loan, we might add one or two more, but 23 is the target squad size.”
The friendly against Bishop’s Cleeve saw Forest Green secure a 3-1 win, despite seeing Ifeanyi forced off early with a hamstring injury—though initial assessments suggest it is not severe. The team showcased several standout performers, including youngsters Stevie Walsh and Neil Kengni.
Savage praised key new signings’ contributions: “Emeka Obi was calm and assured, Kyle Ajayi showed leadership, and Sydney Agina impressed with his pace, evident in a remarkable run during the first half. It’s easy to see why he earned Championship appearances late last season.”
Agina, 18, has also represented Kenya internationally, coming on as a substitute in a recent friendly against Lesotho and assisting a goal in the 4-0 win.
Some new signings and regular players, including James Berry and Oli Ewing, were rested due to minor injuries in preparation for an upcoming behind-closed-doors game against Slimbridge.
Savage is optimistic about the squad’s progress and looks forward to the season ahead with a group carefully assembled to match Forest Green’s ambitions.
Forest Green Rovers’ 2026/27 squad numbers reflect a blend of youth and experience, all part of Savage’s strategic plan to build a competitive team.