Former Connah’s Quay and Cardiff City star released as Ex-Rhyl boss lands EFL Job
Rhys Healey
A former Connah’s Quay Nomads and Cardiff City star has been released by his current EFL side, having made just one appearance during a recent loan spell.
Huddersfield Town confirmed on Tuesday that forward Rhys Healey will be departing the club after the two agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent. The 31-year-old had been with the Terriers since 2024.
Healey was most recently loaned out to EFL League Two side Barrow AFC, where he made just one appearance. A familiar name to both Connah’s Quay and Bluebirds supporters, Healey came through the ranks of the Nomads Academy before moving to the Cardiff City Stadium in 2013.
The forward was loaned out to Colchester United, Dundee, Newport County, Torquay United & MK Dons during his time with Cardiff. Healey then joined Toulouse in France, where he scored 37 goals in 69 games before returning to England to join Watford.
Connah’s Quay academy product’s departure confirmed from Huddersfield Town
In a statement released to the Terriers club website, they stated the following: “Signed from Watford in January 2024, the forward’s contract with the Club was due to conclude at the end of the upcoming 2026/27 season.
“However, the decision has been mutually agreed to part ways in advance of that previously stated expiration, with Healey now free to explore other opportunities as a free agent.”
As stated, Healey is now a free agent and can freely explore all options this summer with no rumours currently circulating surrounding his future.
Upon his departure, he said, “Thanks to all the staff and players during my time here; unfortunately, it didn’t go the way I would have liked. All the best for the future.”
Former Rhyl Manager Lands Job at EFL League Two Club
A former player and manager who spent seven years at Rhyl will continue his off-field career in football following his appointment at an EFL League Two side.
Greg Strong joined Rhyl in 2008 before being appointed as manager in 2009 – he oversaw the club winning promotion back to the Cymru Premier in the 2012/13 season with an invincible campaign ahead of his eventual departure in 2015. Strong has had a vast career in the sport, having played for several clubs during his career.
Wigan Athletic, Bolton Wanderers, Stoke City and Dundee are just a few of the clubs that Strong featured for during his playing days as a defender. The now 50-year-old has a vast range of experience with off-pitch roles within football since his retirement.
In July 2016, he reunited with former teammate Derek Adams at Plymouth Argyle, joining the club as a chief scout. Strong was appointed as chief scout at Morecambe in 2022, having also spent time with Salford City in a similar role.
Strong has been appointed as Oldham Athletic’s new Head of Recruitment, and speaking to the club’s website following his appointment, manager Micky Mellon said; Greg brings a wealth of experience and knowledge from across the game.
‘Recruitment is one of the most important aspects of any football club. Identifying the right players, with the right character and quality, is vital to building a successful team and creating long-term stability.”
The EFL has seen several Cymru Premier players and coaches enter the pyramid over the last few years, and the further production of talent in the Welsh footballing landscape is visible to see.
