Swindon Town are set to assess trialists Jonny Williams and Kaelan Majekodunmi in their last pre‑season clash against Forest Green Rovers, as manager Ian Holloway searches for extra bodies to cover a spate of injuries. The club finished the 2025 campaign in 9th place in League Two with 75 points, recording 22 wins, 9 draws and 15 losses, and scored 70 goals while conceding 59.
Who are the trialists and why are they important?
Jonny Williams, a former Wales international, has been training with Swindon Town since early July, hoping to earn a contract that would add experience to the midfield. Kaelan Majekodunmi, a young winger, impressed in training despite mixed performances in earlier friendlies. Both players are being considered because the squad is thin - Ollie Clarke and Joe Snowdon are only marginally fit, and Mitch Clark’s hamstring problem may sideline him for the start of the season.
What does the Forest Green friendly mean for the squad?
The match at The New Lawn is normally a dress rehearsal for the league opener, but Holloway treats it as a chance to test potential signings. He told reporters, “I am not talking about that now,” when asked about the trialists after the Leyton Orient win, indicating a focus on the upcoming league fixtures rather than cup games. The manager wants a squad ready for Northampton Town, stressing that league performance outweighs any cup run.
How could new signings affect Swindon Town’s season?
If Williams or Majekodunmi secure deals before the friendly, they could provide the depth needed to navigate the early congested schedule. Adding four or five players, as Holloway suggested, would help mitigate the risk of further injuries and keep the team competitive. With the next league fixture against Grimsby away on 27 February 2027 (Grimsby sit 7th), a reinforced squad could be decisive in climbing the table.
What are the next steps for the club?
Swindon Town will monitor the trialists’ performances on the pitch and in training over the weekend. Should either player impress, a short‑term contract could be offered before the season kicks off. The club remains focused on solidifying a squad capable of challenging the leaders - currently 12 points behind Bromley - while maintaining the goal difference of +11 from the previous season.
The outcome of the Forest Green friendly will shape Swindon Town’s final pre‑season roster, potentially adding fresh talent to a side eager to improve on a mid‑table finish.
