Dom Telford: League Two top scorer leaving Newport County

The 25-year-old enjoyed a remarkable campaign to finish as the top scorer in Division Two, striking 25 times in the league after getting up and running in the EFL Trophy.

Telford’s contract expires this summer and he was offered fresh terms by the Exiles but his exploits have caught the eye of other clubs.

The Rodney Parade side were braced for a rejection of their contract but kept an offer on the table beyond a deadline before the striker delivered the news they expected.

CRACKER: Dom Telford scored against Barrow for County (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“Unfortunately Dom has decided not to sign and will move in a different direction,” said manager James Rowberry.

“He hasn’t decided yet where he is going but he has quite a few offers on the table, so we wish him all the best and hope he has every success in the future.”

Telford was shortlisted for League Two player of the season and was included in the team of the year after a remarkable turnaround at Rodney Parade.

He arrived from Plymouth in January of 2021 but scored just once in 15 appearances, missing out on the matchday squad for the Wembley play-off final defeat to Morecambe.

Telford was told he was not needed by previous boss Michael Flynn last summer but remained at the club and forced his way back in.

He scored his first goal against Plymouth in the EFL Trophy on transfer deadline night and then went on to become a leading figure.

Dom Telford scored 25 times in League Two

He scored 25 times in 37 League Two appearances at a rate that only Forest Green’s Matty Stevens could better, forming a strong little-and-large partnership with Courtney Baker-Richardson.

However, County will now join Plymouth, Bury, Bristol Rovers, Stoke and Blackpool on Telford’s list of former clubs.

"I'd like to thank every single person involved with Newport County AFC, who made my time one of the most enjoyable I have experienced as a professional footballer," he posted on social media.

"It was a rollercoaster from the highest of highs to some bumps in the road but I wouldn't have changed a second.

"I have decided to pursue a new challenge in my career, after speaking to my family, agent and close friends for advice I feel at this stage in my career it's the right thing to do.

"From the bottom of my heart I wish the club and everyone associated with it every bit of success moving forward and hope to see all of you in the Amber Army soon.

"I arrived a boy and have definitely left a man and for that I will always be grateful."

Baker-Richardson has also left the club to sign a two-year deal with League Two rivals Crewe Alexandra while targetman Alex Fisher was released at the end of last season and the loans of Rob Street and Timmy Abraham ended.

County are reshaping their forward line and have so far brought in Cardiff City loanee Chanka Zimba Will Evans from Cymru Premier side Bala to join Lewis Collins as options up front.

Rowberry and sporting director Darren Kelly are aiming to bring in two more forwards, one of them experienced, ahead of the new season.