Sutton United Pursues Experienced Defensive Reinforcements from Forest Green Rovers

Sutton United has progressed negotiations to sign experienced centre-backs Jordan Moore-Taylor and Ryan Inniss following their departures from Forest Green Rovers. Both defenders became free agents at the end of the recent campaign, with the club targeting them as part of a defensive overhaul after finishing 19th in the National League, just five points above the relegation zone.

Addressing a Defensive Weakness

Sutton's difficult season exposed significant vulnerabilities in their backline. The club conceded 79 goals across their 46 league matches, ranking as the fifth-highest tally in the division. This defensive frailty directly contributed to their narrow escape from relegation, prompting manager Chris Agutter's recruitment team to prioritise centre-back reinforcements ahead of their preparations for the upcoming campaign.

Experience and Leadership

Moore-Taylor, 32, departs Forest Green after more than six years with the club, during which he served as captain and played a crucial role in their promotion from League Two. In his farewell message, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity and highlighted the friendships formed during his tenure. Inniss featured in 19 league appearances for Forest Green in the recent season, with 13 of those being starts, and scored during a victory against Altrincham.

Both players bring depth and experience at EFL and National League level. Moore-Taylor made 23 National League appearances, including a goal in a 4-0 victory against Sutton itself, while Inniss's limited playing time suggests potential for increased minutes at his new club. The signings represent a shift in recruitment strategy for Sutton, which previously attempted to develop players from lower divisional levels with less successful results.

Broader Context

Sutton has now completed three seasons in the National League following their relegation in May 2024. Finishes of 12th and 19th in the preceding campaigns have failed to signal progression towards a return to the EFL, prompting the club to revisit a model of recruiting established players. The pursuit of Moore-Taylor and Inniss reflects management's assessment that their previous recruitment approach requires adjustment.