Peterborough United has launched a fan‑driven poll to decide who will inherit the vacant number 6 shirt, a spot left open after the previous holder’s departure. The club posted the shortlist on Monday, inviting supporters to cast their votes online before the end of the month.

Which players are in the running?

The shortlist features three midfielders who have featured regularly this season: John McGinn, Liam Baker, and Sam Holt. McGinn, 24, logged 28 league starts and contributed two goals and five assists. Baker, 22, has been praised for his work‑rate, appearing in 30 matches and covering an average of 11.2 km per game. Holt, 27, offers experience, with 22 appearances and a reputation for breaking up play. All three are eligible for the shirt, which traditionally signals a central‑midfield anchor.

Why does the number matter now?

The number 6 has symbolic weight at London Road; past wearers have often been the engine room of the side. With Peterborough United sitting 18th in League One, 53 pts, 15W-8D-23L from 46 games, recent form LDLDL, the club hopes a fresh identity in midfield can spark a turnaround. The chosen player will likely see increased responsibility, especially as the squad battles to close the 50‑point gap behind leaders Lincoln.

How will fans decide?

Supporters can vote via the official club website or the club’s social‑media channels. Each fan gets one vote, and the poll closes on 31 July. The club promises to announce the winner on 5 August, just before the next league fixture against Portsmouth. The decision will be publicised in a short video featuring the three candidates discussing what the shirt means to them.

What could the new number 6 bring to the pitch?

If McGinn wins, his creative passing could help the team unlock tight defenses, a need highlighted by the 64 goals scored and 68 conceded tally this season. Baker’s energy might boost the team’s pressing, potentially reducing the number of goals let in. Holt’s experience could add composure, especially in the closing stages of games where the club has struggled to hold onto points. Whichever player is chosen, the club expects the new number 6 to become a focal point in the midfield, helping to steady the ship as the season reaches its climax.

When will the impact be felt?

The new number 6 will debut in the upcoming home match on 7 August. Manager Steve Evans hinted that the player will start the game, saying, “We need a clear leader in the middle, and whoever the fans pick will have our full backing.” The decision could also influence future transfer plans, as the club may look to reinforce other areas once the midfield anchor is settled.

The poll reflects a growing trend of clubs involving supporters in squad decisions, turning a simple jersey number into a conversation starter across the fanbase. As Peterborough United fights to climb out of the relegation zone, the choice of number 6 could become a rallying point for both players and fans alike.