On the eve of our return to the Enterprise National League North after two seasons away, Kevin Wilkin has sought to increase his playing resources with two new arrivals, Freddie Cook and Alfie Brooks.
Freddie, a 19-year-old central defender, has spent most of pre-season with the Bucks, although one of the games he started, at home to Aston Villa’s under-21 side, was curtailed when he suffered a cut to his head that required treatment.
Freddie spent time in the Leicester City academy before signing for Cardiff City’s Under 21 side in July 2023. The Welsh EFL League One side released Freddie this summer upon expiration of his contract, and after being put in contact with the Bucks, he has impressed Kevin sufficiently to be added to the squad.
Joining Freddie in putting pen to paper is goalkeeper Alfie Brooks.
Alfie has also featured in pre-season matches for the Bucks, with the tall 21-year-old stopper impressing observers and, crucially, Kevin Wilkin and goalkeeping coach Paul Mellings.
Having started at West Bromwich Albion, Alfie then joined Birmingham City in the summer of 2020. After a three-year stay with the Blues, Alfie became a Potter, signing for Stoke City in the summer of 2023. Seeking new opportunities following his release at the end of June 2025, he joined the Bucks and having earned terms, Alfie will be pushing Brandon Hall for a starting berth in between the sticks.
With Freddie having last played in Wales, his signing was subject to obtaining international clearance. We received this today, meaning both Freddie and Alfie are eligible for tomorrow’s opening fixture at King’s Lynn Town.
We welcome both Freddie and Alfie to the SEAH Stadium and hope you will likewise make them feel at home.
If you're interested in sponsoring Freddie and/or Alfie for the 2025/26 season, please get in touch with Aimée Lauder, our Commercial Sales Manager, at sales@afctu.co.uk or 07818638850.
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