Woking FC Boosts Squad as Josh Kelly and Tunji Akinola Sign On
Kingfield Prepares for a Thrilling Season as Kelly Returns
The Laithwaite Community Stadium is buzzing with anticipation as Woking FC secures two major squad boosts ahead of the upcoming National League campaign. Striker Josh Kelly has officially committed to the Cards on a permanent two-year contract following his departure from League One side AFC Wimbledon. The 27-year-old is a familiar face to the Kingfield faithful, having scored five goals in 24 appearances during a loan spell last season before an unfortunate injury against Eastleigh on Boxing Day cut his campaign short. Alongside Kelly, long-serving defender Tunji Akinola has put pen to paper on a one-year contract extension. Akinola, also 27, has become a cornerstone of the defensive line, racking up 138 appearances and netting seven goals since arriving from Partick Thistle in 2023. These signings represent a clear statement of intent from the club’s management, signaling stability and ambition to the loyal local supporters who pack the stands of our historic neighbourhood ground week in and week out.
Building Strong Foundations in the Woking Community
Football clubs, much like the homes in our leafy Surrey neighbourhoods, require careful planning and solid foundations to stand the test of time. While Woking’s Director of Football Jody Brown focuses on restructuring the playing squad, local homeowners are similarly looking to improve their own spaces. In areas like South Woking and Westfield, premier Guilford builders are increasingly in demand as residents look to maximise their properties. Whether undertaking a sophisticated loft conversion to accommodate growing families or starting a comprehensive loft refurbishment on older character properties, local tradespeople are keeping busy. This commitment to structural quality and long-term investment is mirrored on the pitch. Brown’s description of Akinola as ‘robust, available, versatile, and consistent’ reflects the exact qualities Woking residents value in both their local sports heroes and the craftsmen working on their homes. By securing dependable talent, the club is ensuring it has the resilience needed for a grueling league campaign.
What This Means for Local Supporters and Businesses
The fortunes of Woking FC stretch far beyond the touchline of Kingfield Stadium, directly impacting local businesses, pubs, and community groups. Matchdays bring thousands of visitors into the local area, providing a vital economic boost to independent shops, cafes, and family-run pubs along Kingfield Road and the town centre. A successful team on the pitch translates to busier high streets and a stronger sense of local pride. For residents looking to get involved, the Cardinals Trust offers fantastic opportunities to support community-led initiatives and youth football programs. As the pre-season matches approach, locals are encouraged to secure their season tickets and help turn Kingfield into a fortress once again. With Josh Kelly hungry to prove himself over the next two years and Tunji Akinola anchoring the defence, the community has plenty of reasons to get behind the Cards this season. Keep an eye on the club’s upcoming friendly fixtures as the refurbished squad takes shape.
Source: Josh Kelly: Woking re-sign former AFC Wimbledon striker on two-year deal
