Wilkin: Styche needed for big change

By Neil Harvey

MOVE: Reece Styche

AFC TELFORD United boss Kevin Wilkin has told new striker Reece Styche that he needs him to make major contributions on and off the pitch.

The Bucks boss landed the experienced Gibraltar international following a brief spell at NPL Premier rivals Matlock Town.

Wilkin made the move for the 34-year-old following last Saturday’s shock 2-0 FA Trophy defeat to Quorn where the former Brackley Town chief complained of a lack of character from his pivotal squad members.

“He’ll take responsibility,” Wilkin said of the much-travelled former Forest Green, Hereford, Kidderminster and Stourbridge striker.

“He’s in the latter part of his career, but he’s strong and powerful and will be a presence for the frontline.

“For too long we’ve been relying on Montel (Gibson) alone, and I needed to bring somebody in to go and support him up there. He will put a demand on the players around him.”

Styche arrived at Matlock in March and went on to score three goals in eight appearances before the end of the 2022/23 season as the Gladiators secured a play-off spot.

A shoulder injury has limited his game time so far this season, while Styche was keen to join a club closer to his Staffordshire home.

Matlock boss Martin Carruthers said: “Reece came in at a difficult time last season. He did really well for us, being pivotal as we made the play-offs, scoring some vital goals.

“He gave us a much-needed boost. He had a shoulder injury in the last training session before the season which hampered him, and he also had his international call up with Gibraltar.

“Understandably at his age, Reece just wants to play football. He’s moving to a club closer to his home, we have to respect that.”