AFC Telford United double award winner's future confirmed after switch to league rivals

Former AFC Telford United star Khanya Leshabela has joined National League North rivals South Shields after his exit from the Bucks.

The midfielder, 26, was one of the shining lights of Telford’s first campaign back at step two but has elected to move on from Shropshire after just a single season at the club.

He has made the switch to the north east and ambitious South Shields, who pushed champions AFC Fylde hard last season only to settle for a runners-up spot before losing in the play-off final to Kidderminster Harriers.

South African Leshabela featured in 44 of 46 National North fixtures for Kevin Wilkin’s side last season - 43 as a starter - and his exit is undoubtedly a blow, if an unsurprising one, for the Bucks.

His displays earned him the aways supporters’ and sponsors’ player of the season awards.

Shields are managed by former Newcastle and Wolves defender Mike Williamson, who has previously been in charge at MK Dons and Carlisle.

Leshabela came through the youth ranks at Leicester and had spells out on loan including at Shrewsbury Town, in 2021.

His exit comes after another of last season’s stars, Ammar Dyer, departed for Macclesfield last month.

Attacking star Dylan Allen-Hadley also moved on to champions Fylde.

Leshabela said: "I'm delighted to finally be here. I've met pretty much everyone already and they've all been really welcoming. I'm just happy to be here and can't wait to get the season started."

"There's a clear strategy and philosophy in the way the team wants to play, and I feel like I can fit right into it.

"Every club I've been at has taught me something, and I've tried to take everything I've learned throughout my journey and implement it into my game."

"I enjoy having the ball, driving forward with it and combining with my team-mates. I just want to help the team."