As anyone who provides FM24 tips will tell you, there is always something a bit special about taking over a club in England's so-called ‘football underworld'
Fictional or otherwise, there are many accounts of getting the likes of Torquay United into the Champions League and proudly posting ‘Completed It Mate' on a social channel.
However, when starting out in Football Manager, you'll be a far cry from reaching those heights immediately and must cut your cloth accordingly.
Loan deals, cheap signings and free agents will be how you navigate your way into the EFL and up the footballing pyramid.
With that in mind, we've shortlisted six players who you should look for immediately as cost-effective options, both in the latest squad build for FM 24 and potentially in the next issue of the game later this year.
FM24 tips: The latest non-league talents
Josh Hinds
Josh Hinds has solid experience at non-league level, having turned out for Boston United, Bradford Park Avenue and recently Truro City FC. So he'd be a solid addition at this level, and although not many of his stats jump out at you, he's well-rounded on the ball and should have reasonable wage demands at £800 per week.
Scott Burgess
Scott Burgess has almost 100 appearances in the non-league scene and at 26 he could be the experienced head you need in midfield. While it didn't work out for him at York City – due to numerous off-field issues at the club – he could be a solid option and someone who can play in the centre or on either wing.
Sam Graham
We can see Sam Graham being a player who's wanted by a lot of clubs now he's a free agent. Graham was playing in League Two during the 2022/23 season with Rochdale so he's a talented centre-back who reads the game. However, his wages are expected to be quite high, so perhaps this is one for the more established National League clubs.
Jordan Stevens
Jordan Stevens is a Championship winner with Leeds back in 2020 where he made four appearances but is now a free agent and likely heading to the National League. The attacking midfielder is quick on the ball and keen to get it forward.
Max Thomspon
Having failed to make the grade at either Sunderland or Burnley, Max Thomspon is one to snap up as soon as you load up Football Manager. With a very attractive 14′ rating for finishing, he's got bags of potential. However, the £1,000 per week wage demands could put many teams off.
Caleb Chukwuemeka
The name will be familiar to English football fans because Caleb Chukwuemeka's brother, Carney, plays for Chelsea. While Caleb's career has not hit the same heights, he is one of the best free agents to pick up on Football Manager. He'll cost over £1,000 per week, however, with 13′ acceleration.
