Midfielder in post Reading transfer as they find new club after summer exit

Recently released Reading midfielder Niamh Duggan has found a new home.

The Royals reverted to part-time status following their relegation from the Women’s Super League, and a result several players have departed the Madejski Stadium.

18-year-old midfielder Duggan was one of those players and she has now returned to Park Avenue for the 2023/24 Adran Premier season.

“I’m really happy to be back, and can’t wait to get started,” said Duggan in an interview with the club.

“It’ll be great to have another homegrown talented player on the pitch for us,” added manager Gavin Allen.

“She’ll strengthen the squad significantly, and I look forward to seeing the impact she makes on the Genero Adran Premier this season.”

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Duggan, along with Maisie Miller made the move to England two years ago, with the latter joining Brighton. Miller is now with Durham Cestria, who play in the FA Women’s National League.

As for Duggan, she has opted to return to Aberystwyth and is one of their first signings of the summer transfer window.

In her first spell with Aberystwyth which was in the 2020/21 season, she played 20 times and scored two goals, including an effort that helped Aber reach the semi-finals of the Adran Trophy.

Duggan has gone on to make four caps for the Wales Under-17’s team with her last cap coming against Scotland in February 2022.

Carmarthen, Wales – 19th February, 2023: Amy Jenkins of Aberystwyth in action. Aberystwyth Town v Briton Ferry Llansawel in the FAW Women’s Cup Semi Final at Richmond Park on the 19th February 2023. (Pic by Lewis Mitchell/FAW)

In other news, Kelly Thomas has stood down as club captain and has been replaced by forward Amy Jenkins.

“I’m delighted,” said Jenkins. “I’ve played for Aber for 11 years and I know exactly what it means to put on this shirt.”

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Manager Gavin Allen said: “It’s fantastic news for the football club. She brings a lot of knowledge and a wealth of experience. We are looking forward to seeing how she will lead the club to compete at the top of the Genero Adran Premier.”

It follows two seasons of captaincy service from Kelly Thomas, who will remain involved in the squad.

“It was an absolute honour and privilege to captain the team,” said Thomas. “It’s been an amazing two seasons.”

“Kel has been at the heart of Aberystwyth Town Women for well over a decade,” added Allen. “She has been phenomenal, leading the team to a fourth-place finish and two cup semi-finals, and will still be a big part of our club going forward.”

(Pic by Nik Mesney/FAW)