Shropshire Star

Josh Wilson leaves AFC Telford

Josh Wilson is the fifth player to leave AFC Telford United so far this summer after not being offered fresh terms by boss Rob Smith.

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The 28-year-old striker was the Bucks’ top goalscorer last season in National League North, netting eight times in 35 games.

In total, he scored 16 goals in 47 league appearances for the club.

The Liverpudlian follows Dave Hibbert, Danny Reynolds, Joel Dielna and Connor McCarthy in being let go by Telford.

Smith said: “After discussions with Josh I feel it is best for him to find a new challenge closer to his home town as I know the travelling was becoming problematic.

“I would like thank Josh personally for his efforts, he is a great character who played a massive part in the club retaining its National League North status. I wish him all the best in everything he does”

Meanwhile, McCarthy has thanked all at the club following his departure – and insists he will learn from last season.

The 22-year-old forward checked out of the New Bucks Head on Monday after a two-year spell at the club.

He shone in the first campaign, across two loan spells from Southport, but in the second term, after being snapped up permanently, he netted just twice in the league.

McCarthy said: “I had a great two years at the club which I really enjoyed, not as much the second year from a personal point of view.

“No particular reasons why it didn’t go as well, just wasn’t to the standard I set myself which was a big disappointment.

“The first season at the club was unforgettable as we had a big challenge on our hands to stay up against all the odds, and with the fans behind us that helped us massively – turning up every week. The fans where great with me from day one, sorry it didn’t work out as well the second time round but I will learn from it. Hopefully it won’t be the last time I see them, and

“I’d like to thank them all for sticking by me every time I went out and put a Telford kit on.”

McCarthy also took the time to thank Smith and assistant boss Larry Chambers, and sports therapist Tom Fream and the physios.

“I would like to thank Rob an Larry as much as possible. I always had a laugh with them no matter what the circumstances was – whether we won or lost.

“ I won’t half miss their team talks that made me laugh every time before going out on to the pitch.

“And the physio team – the best signing Telford have ever made is Tom. He took so much time for every player and went well out of his way to look after everyone, and do more than his job required”

He added: “Most of all, I would like to wish them all the best in the future – once a Buck, always a Buck.”