Hednesford star Montel Gibson leaves after promotion campaign

Star forward Montel Gibson has departed Hednesford Town just more than a week after the club announced he had agreed new terms.

Gibson played a key role in helping the Pitmen secure promotion from the Northern Premier League to the National League North, including scoring the opener in their play-off semi-final win over Stockton Town.

The club had previously announced on May 16 that Gibson, alongside several others, had agreed terms to remain at Keys Park next season. However, less than 10 days later, Hednesford confirmed the 28-year-old had decided to leave the club.

Hednesford director of football Andrew Reed said: “Monts is a good person and a terrific player.

“Naturally, we are disappointed as we felt he had the chance to be part of something exciting here next season, but we understand these decisions are not always straightforward.

“He has played his part in what the club has achieved and we wish him all the very best for what comes next.

“We are continuing to make strong progress with the squad for 2026/27 and look forward to sharing more news soon.”

Gibson joined Hednesford in October last year after spells with Notts County, Grimsby Town, AFC Telford United, Matlock Town and, most recently, a loan spell with Hereford in the National League North.

It marked a return to Keys Park, with supporters already familiar with Gibson following a previous loan spell at Hednesford in 2016.

The forward scored 12 league goals in 31 appearances this season, helping fire the Pitmen to promotion.

Elsewhere, local rivals Stafford Rangers have announced further arrivals as they continue their rapid rebuild under ambitious new American investors.

Boss Graham Deakin has welcomed striker Darrhyl Mason from promoted Northern One West outfit Avro, where he scored 14 goals in 17 games during the recent campaign.

Rangers have also retained fan favourite Jack Birch, who finished as the club’s top scorer this season.

The pair add to an already healthy squad after multiple early summer arrivals, including goalkeeper Leon Phillips, who joined today following Scott Moloney’s departure to take up an opportunity at a higher level. Phillips rejoins Stafford having previously played for the club during the 2024/25 season.

Meanwhile, Lichfield City, who have recently been moved to the Northern One West and appointed Matty Lovatt as manager, have confirmed the retention of Kieran Francis and Callum Griffin.

Griffin scored seven goals in nine appearances this season, while Francis was a two-time winner of the club’s goal of the month award.