AFC TELFORD UNITED have received a big blow with striker Mike Phenix making the move into professional football with Barnsley.
Phenix scored twice in the Bucks’ surprise 3-1 win at Woking on Saturday although they still remain bottom of the Vanarama Conference.
And now their top scorer has departed, leaving the New Bucks Head for League One side Barnsley in a deal that makes him the Bucks’ joint-highest player sale.
As well as receiving a transfer fee up front, Telford will also receive payment in instalments, a sell-on fee and a pre-season friendly against the Tykes.
A club statement read: “AFC Telford United yesterday received an approach from Halifax regarding Mike Phenix which we would have done our best to fend off as there was no desire to see Mike leave for a competitor.
“Subsequently the club also received an approach from Barnsley. The board of directors and manager were reluctant to let the player go but, as in all cases, the offer was put to the player and his wishes, to make the progression into the full time game, were fully taken into account.
“With this in mind we have reluctantly agreed to the transfer of Mike to Barnsley. We wish Mike all the best for the future. It has been an immense pleasure working with him. Barnsley FC have also been fantastic throughout this process.
“The manager has again been given the full backing and encouragement of the club board to bring in players as he sees fit in order to ensure we build upon the win at Woking. We are absolutely focussed on ensuring the club remains in the Vanarama Conference and progresses as far as possible in every competition.”
