From Víctor Valdés to Steven Fletcher: a Premier…

From Víctor Valdés to Steven Fletcher: a Premier League XI now available for free

What a team made up of players who were released by Premier League clubs last week could look like. Gastón Ramírez and Steven Fletcher, who once cost £12m four years ago, are the only players under the age of 30.

Premier League clubs submitted their retained and released lists last week with a number of experienced players looking for a new club. But what would a team made up of these free agents look like – and how would it fare in the Premier League, or indeed, the Championship?

Goalkeeper: Víctor Valdés

Released from Manchester United Age 34

With compatriot David de Gea first choice, Valdés appeared just twice in 18 months at Old Trafford. Once regarded among the best in Europe, he could feasibly play on for another five years at the top level and has been linked with a move to Manchester City.

Right-back: Joey O’Brien

Released from West Ham United Age 30

When fit, O’Brien is as reliable as they come, although may not embody the modern breed of full-back that West Ham are looking for. Had he not been dogged by injuries, could well have found himself in the Republic of Ireland’s Euro 2016 squad.

Centre-back: Steven Taylor

Released from Newcastle United Age 30

Turned down a one-year contract to stay at Newcastle for a 22nd year and has been heavily linked with Rangers. Vastly experienced and not likely to command wages that are too dear.

Centre-back: Kolo Touré

Released from Liverpool Age 35

Having made 26 appearances last season, it was a surprise to see Jürgen Klopp release Touré, who became something of a cult favourite since signing on a free back in 2013. Still has pace that belies his 35 years.

Left-back: Kieran Richardson

Released from Aston Villa Age 30

A bit-part player for the worst team in the Premier League is not the biggest sell, but eight caps for England suggests there is natural talent lurking somewhere in those boots.

Right-midfield: Stéphane Sessègnon

Released from West Bromwich Albion Age 32

For a team lacking creativity, it seems baffling that Tony Pulis would allow such a talented, tricky player to leave on a free. Just turned 32, he is likely to want one last big pay day.

Centre-midfield: Tomas Rosicky

Released from Arsenal Age 35

Captain of the Czech Republic at Euro 2016, his guile and class have never been in doubt. He lasted 88 minutes against Spain on Monday to prove he can – when fit – still compete with the best.

Centre-midfield: Mathieu Flamini

Released from Arsenal Age 32

Flamini’s last season at Arsenal will be remembered for that challenge on Lionel Messi in the Champions League quarter-final first leg, 45 seconds after coming on. But that was just one of 24 appearances last season and his experience and commitment would be a valuable asset for a team fighting relegation.

Left-midfield: Gastón Ramírez

Released from Southampton Age 25

Ramírez became Southampton’s record signing in 2012, costing £12m. Fell out of favour but looked revived as he helped Middlesbrough gain promotion last season. At 25, he should be at his peak, but looks likely to move abroad.

Forward: Emmanuel Adebayor

Released from Crystal Palace Age 32

The eternal risk. Palace appeared shrewd in picking up the Togo striker on a six-month deal in January but just one goal later, it looks as though Adebayor has lost his edge. Still young enough to have one last hurrah.

Forward: Steven Fletcher

Released from Sunderland Age 29

Another player that cost £12m in 2012, Fletcher remains a canny striker, and still in his 20s. A surprise loan move to Marseille did not work out last season, but Scotland’s current highest scorer is wanted by Hull City, Aston Villa and Celtic.