The Isle of Wight may not be most famous for its football, but that has not stopped the progression of certain stars around a variety of levels in the English game. Whether it be League One, League Two, or as high as the Championship, the so-called ‘Dinosaur Land’ has produced some standout names, who have slipped under the radar in recent years.
Of course, if we look back in history, the most famous name to come from the island is Lee Bradbury. The former footballer became Manchester City’s record signing in 1997, before enjoying spells at Crystal Palace and Portsmouth, where he helped guide them back to the Premier League.
Aaron Martin: From Isle of Wight to Eastleigh
First on the list is Aaron Martin. The current Eastleigh centre-back originally started at the club he looks set to retire at, is 33. With 17 appearances to his name in the National League this season, you can use your Betfair £30 in free bets on Eastleigh and Martin for the remainder of the season.
The defender has featured for several clubs throughout what has been a relatively long career. Included in those clubs, of course, is Southampton, as well as Crystal Palace, Birmingham City, Yeovil Town, and Coventry City. Now in the National League with Eastleigh, the Isle of Wight-born defender will be hoping to help his side enjoy a successful season in the National League.
Dan Butler: Established at Peterborough
Another name to keep an eye on if you’re looking for those from the Isle of Wight is Dan Butler. The Peterborough wing-back is now an established League One defender, having previously been at Portsmouth, Aldershot, Torquay, and Newport County.
It’s fair to say that, since making the step up to Peterborough in July of 2019, Butler hasn’t looked back, making over 100 appearances for the Posh. With his side currently enjoying a good season when it comes to the League One standings, Butler looks likely to have every chance of making the playoffs, and potentially stepping up a level to the Championship, too.
At 28, Butler may not get the chance to become the first player from the Isle of Wight to play in the Premier League since the 90s, but he may well become the closest if Peterborough continues their impressive start to the current campaign.
Others to look out for from the Isle of Wight
Whilst not every player from the Isle of Wight has enjoyed the success of the previously-mentioned names, players like George Colsen still stand out. The midfielder, who is currently on a career break, enjoyed spells at Portsmouth, Dorchester, Salisbury and AFC Portchester before stepping out of the game in July 2021 at 29. Where he goes from here remains to be seen.
There is a route into the game for those from the Isle of Wight, as proven by the likes of Butler and Martin. But, it must be said, throughout the years, we have seen a limited number of players make the step towards the higher levels of the English game.
