Jazz Richards joins Haverfordwest County in major coup for Bluebirds

Haverfordwest County have secured a major coup after confirming the addition of Wales international defender Jazz Richards. 

The move is subject to international clearance and if granted by Monday, Richards could make his debut away at Aberystwyth Town on Tuesday. 

Wales international Richards, has played for his country on 14 occasions and was a member of the 2016 European Championship squad which reached the semi-finals in France. 

The 29-year-old, who made 11 appearances in the Championship for Cardiff City last season, has been in search of a new club since leaving the Bluebirds in June 2020.

Despite interest from professional sides and a trial period at Carmarthen Town, the right-back has committed his short-term future at least to the West Walian side.

His new club Haverfordwest County have five games remaining in Phase One and at least a further ten league games, in which he could feature in. 

Chairman Rob Edwards said: “We are absolutely delighted to complete the signing of Jazz. He is a true professional who has played at the highest level for club and country.

“His ability, experience and knowledge of the game will be a huge asset for the rest of the season and will no doubt raise the levels of those around him too.”

Richards is not the only former Swansea City player to delve into Welsh domestic football, with a handful of former professional players moving to the Welsh system in recent years.

Richards’ Wales teammate David Cotterill, who like Richards was in Wales’ EURO 2016 squad ended a two-year retirement to sign for Barry Town United.

In 2016, Lee Trundle ended a five-year exile from football by signing for Llanelli Town of whom he spent two-years playing for. He has since moved played for Haverfordwest County, Trefelin and now Cymru South outfit Ammanford.

Ammanford also have Trundle’s former teammate Andy Robinson on their books, as well as Leon Britton, who was recently announced by the Carmarthenshire side.

(Featured Image: Jon Candy)