The engine of the team, it's a little more necessary to have a younger player in the more advanced central midfield role - especially if you've picked out one of the older options on this list already to play alongside. But saying that, experience can count for a lot in central midfield, and you can potentially find Paul Scholes out there in the golden generation. Unfortunately, you won't find him at the start of the game though...
11. Nigel Reo-Coker
Age: 28 Nation: England He may have just joined Ipswich Town on a free, but thanks to the Data Lock date, the former West Ham and Aston Villa midfielder, who was most recently with relegated Bolton Wanderers, will still be on the free pile at the start of your Football Manager 2013 game. And he's certainly worth investing in as a squad player - if only for his work rate and his top level experience. Perhaps not one to build a Premier league winning team around, but he could definitely offer another option from the bench on as the starter in a Championship or lower Premier League team.
12. Thomas Hitzlsperger
Age: 30 Nation: Germany Another player who has just joined a new club in real life - Everton, though it isn't certain he'll stick around after his short term deal - but who didn't beat the Data Lock, and who should be available on a free at the outset of your game. The Hammer brings his own set of skills to the table, including an exceptional long shot, and he would definitely make a fine squad addition.
Other free central midfielders: Jonatas (29), Simone Barone (34), Marcos Paulo (35).