Sam Morsy has tipped Middlesbrough to sign Sol Bamba this summer, describing him as 'an inspiration'.
Neil Warnock made the decision back in July to allow the experienced defender to train with the Teessiders in order to build his fitness ahead of the upcoming campaign.
This was after the 36-year-old left previous club Cardiff City following the end of his contract.
Bamba's final year in South Wales was marred by a battle with cancer which the defender and now overcome, and with Warnock being a close friend of the defender, the decision was made to offer him a platform in which to prepare for the new season.
Since then he has shone during pre-season, and according to Morsy, it would be a huge boost to see such a big character link up with the club for the season ahead.
Speaking to the Hartlepool Mail, Morsy said: "What an amazing guy he is. I’m presuming he’s going to sign and he’s just given the place a huge lift.
"His story and having bounced back is an inspiration really. I remember his first training session and thinking wow, he’s a proper player.
"Pelts is another one who will be massive in the dressing room. He’s a great guy, he’s vocal, he’s a leader and is in great shape.
“More importantly he’s just a really, really good person. We have a lot of similar friends and he’s someone you can fully rely on.
“You can't underestimate having these people in the dressing room, that is absolutely huge.”
The verdict
This would be a fantastic move if Middlesbrough were to pull it off.
Sol Bamba is one of the most likable characters in the game, but not only that, he's a fierce performer who still has a lot to offer.
At 36 years of age he's a player who may not expect to play in every single game but his experience and leadership would undoubtedly be a huge asset to Neil Warnock's squad.
It remains to be seen whether he will be offered a contract but it's certainly something that the club should consider.