George McEachran has become a key figure in Chesterfield's midfield, using the lessons from a challenging start to his career to help the club's push up the table. The 26-year-old, who joined on a two-year deal this summer, is now a regular starter under Paul Cook and is looking forward to Saturday's home clash with third-placed Crewe Alexandra.
McEachran spent 16 years in Chelsea's academy, training with senior stars like Eden Hazard and Reece James and even being an unused substitute for the 2019 Europa League final. His path to regular football, however, involved character-building loan moves to Dutch clubs SC Cambuur and MVV Maastricht during the Covid-19 pandemic. "Was it a character builder? 100 per cent," McEachran said. "It was tough but it made me stronger." He described off-pitch conditions as difficult, with shops closed and a reliance on food delivery services, and he eventually cut the second loan short.
After leaving Chelsea in 2023, he had a season at Swindon Town before a successful two-year spell at Grimsby Town, where he was named Player of the Year in his first season and helped the Mariners reach the League Two play-offs. His move to the Proact Stadium has seen him make 19 appearances and score one goal, forming an effective partnership with Ryan Stirk in the centre of the park. McEachran believes they balance each other out as similar players and enjoys the style of play under Cook.
Chesterfield go into the weekend sitting ninth in League Two with 16 points from 12 games, their recent form showing a draw, a loss, and another draw in the last three outings. They are nine points behind leaders Salford City but remain positive about turning performances into results. "I think it is only a matter of time before it changes for us and we get the points we deserve," McEachran added. The team's next challenge is a significant one, hosting a Crewe side that is third in the standings. The last meeting between the sides in August ended in a goalless draw.
Now entering his peak years, the former England youth international is focused on helping Chesterfield win honours. He is hopeful the team can start a positive run of form, beginning with this important fixture at home. Fans can see the full schedule ahead, including the Crewe match, on the club's fixtures page. McEachran's older brother Josh, also a product of the Chelsea academy, most recently played for Bristol Rovers.
This story first appeared at matlockmercury.co.uk
