First up, we'll have a look at the best 'keepers available. There are a host of former Premier League players without contracts at the start of the game, and our top choices were both international class custodians in former years - now getting a little longer in the tooth, but still definitely worth a punt without a transfer fee. Provided they're both fit anyway...
1. Craig Gordon
Age: 29 Nation: Scotland Formerly with Sunderland, the Scotland international's injury record is something of a worry, but when fit, he is one of the finest shot stopping 'keepers to have played in the Premier League for some year. Definitely one who you could get five or six seasons out of, provided he could be made to get fit - which judging by his real life counterpart, might be easier said than done. At least the lack of a fee takes the gamble out of it.
2. Alex Manninger
Age: 35 Nation: Austria With Arsenal between 1997 and 2002, and most recently with Udinese and Juventus, Austrian international Manninger has travelled the biggest leagues in Europe, building experience and his reputation as a solid and dependable stopper who offers competition to the first team 'keeper. Definitely one to flesh out the squad who could be called on periodically to rest the first choice, with his experience making up for his older legs. Still, not exactly one for the long term.
Other free 'keepers: Jurgen Macho (34), Alexander Stolz (28), Richard Kingson (34)