Tranmere have announced the return of popular midfielder Connor Jennings on a free transfer three years after he left the club.
Jennings, 31, needs no introduction to the SWA. Having joined initially from Wrexham back in 2016, he went on to play a leading role in helping Tranmere get back into the EFL and secure back-to-back promotions in the process.
A hard-working attacking player, Jennings scored in Wembley defeat in 2017, but 12 months later was the hero after he supplied the cross for James Norwood’s winning goal in the National League play-off final against Boreham Wood. That game was just days after Jennings was released from hospital having been in a coma.
Another year on and he was at it again, stooping to head the most dramatic of winning goals in the 120th minute of the League Two play-off final against Newport County. That goal secured that second successive promotion and a return to League One.
However, then came COVID, and after Rovers were demoted, Jennings was one of several players to leave upon expiration of his contract. A move to hometown club Stockport County was too good to turn down.
Jennings was hit with another health challenge at County, successfully overcoming cancer but still playing a part in helping the Edgeley Park outfit back into the Football League. Last season, he moved to Hartlepool United in January and made a big impact, despite Pools ending up relegated.
And so, he returns back to a club that’s lost its way a little since the last time he pulled on the white shirt. The momentum, unity and positivity has ebbed away somewhat over the last couple of seasons, but while some fans may question his return, he is probably the exact type of player and character we need at this moment.
He’s experienced, leads by example, is capable of nicking a goal (usually spectacularly) and knows what the club and the fans expect of those wearing the shirt.
Plus, he’s Connor Jennings.
Welcome back.
