Former Wrexham, Stockport County, and Cymru Premier striker retires at 33
Connah's Quay Nomads were the final club in Jason Oswell's career. (Pic by Nik Mesney/FAW)
Former Wrexham, Stockport County and Cymru Premier striker Jason Oswell has announced his retirement from football, bringing an end to a 15-year playing career.
The 33-year-old was not included in Connah’s Quay Nomads’ match-day squads during their UEFA Conference League qualifying campaign and has now confirmed his decision to retire.
Oswell can be regarded as one of the greatest strikers in Cymru Premier history and, from a Welsh top-flight perspective, played an instrumental role in shaping Newtown’s modern era.
Jason Oswell’s journey from Crewe Alexandra to the Cymru Premier
Before he arrived at The Nomads, Oswell played throughout the football pyramid in Britain, beginning his career as a youth player at Crewe Alexandra before a brief spell in Scotland with Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
Oswell joined Newtown in 2014, arriving at Latham Park at a pivotal time for the club. The striker quickly became a key figure for the Robins, combining his physical presence, intelligent movement and clinical finishing to become one of the league’s most feared forwards.
His first spell between 2014 and 2017 proved to be one of the most successful periods in Newtown’s recent history. Oswell scored 50 goals in 94 appearances, helping the club establish themselves as a consistent force in the Cymru Premier and contributing to memorable European campaigns.
His goalscoring exploits earned widespread recognition, with Oswell developing a reputation as a player capable of deciding matches at the highest level of Welsh domestic football. His performances at Latham Park eventually attracted attention from clubs across the border, leading to a move into the English system.
In 2017, Oswell secured a move to Stockport County, joining a club with a proud Football League history as they looked to rebuild and climb the divisions.
The striker made an immediate impact at Edgeley Park, becoming a key part of a Stockport side competing in the National League North. His 25 goals in 40 league matches helped the club achieve promotion back to the National League in 2019, ending a six-year absence from the division.
Oswell’s time at Stockport represented an important step in his career, proving that his goalscoring record in Wales could translate into success within the English non-league pyramid. His performances earned him recognition as one of the division’s leading forwards.
Further spells followed with Morecambe, Wrexham and AFC Telford United before Oswell returned to Newtown in 2023.
He would later join Connah’s Quay Nomads, where he continued to make his mark, finishing last season with two goals and 20 assists in 20 appearances.
Former Wrexham and Stockport County striker reflects on career
Announcing his retirement on Instagram, Oswell reflected on his career and the memories created along the way.
“From a young kid dreaming of playing professional football, I can look back and say I did just that.
I’ve had the privilege of playing in incredible matches, visiting some fantastic grounds, representing great clubs, sharing the pitch with brilliant players and creating memories that I’ll treasure forever.
“To everyone I crossed paths with along the way, thank you for playing a part in my journey.
“To my family and friends, thank you for your unwavering support. I couldn’t have done it without you, and I’m so grateful you were there to share the journey with me.”
John Disney pays tribute to Welsh football legend
Connah’s Quay Nomads manager John Disney paid tribute to Oswell’s contribution, describing working with the striker as “nothing short of an absolute pleasure”.
Disney said: “Having played against Jason numerous times over the years before and after he went to the English system, there were a number of things that always shone through – his leadership, his willingness to fight for every ball and his finishing attributes were always there to see.
“Jason was my first signing and also my first goalscorer as manager on that sunny afternoon in Colwyn Bay last season, which always brings a big smile to my face.
“Jason always had honest conversations with everyone around him. Even when he received the news regarding his retirement in what was a difficult conversation, he understood and faced adversity head on. He really has been someone that the younger players in our squad have looked up to since arriving.
“I have learnt an awful lot working with him and he is someone I will miss working with and being around the place.
“I know how much love and passion he has to be the best business owner but, more importantly, the best dad and husband he can be. I wish himself, Georgia, Ivy and all the Oswells nothing but the best moving forward, and we will welcome them all back at any time.
“Thank you, Jase.”
Former teammates pay tribute to Oswell
John Disney was not the only figure from Oswell’s career to send his best wishes following the announcement of his retirement.
As news of the striker’s decision was shared, a number of former teammates, opponents and friends took to social media to pay tribute and reflect on the impact he made throughout his career.
Connah’s Quay Nomads teammate Harry Franklin said: “Was a pleasure Jase, congrats on a great career. Wishing you all the best.”
His comments were echoed by Manchester United-bound goalkeeper Kit Margetson, who added: “What an incredible career Jas! All the very best for the future.”
Ryan Sears, now of Caernarfon Town, played alongside Oswell during Newtown’s most successful period in recent history and paid tribute to his former teammate, saying: “Congratulations on your career Jase, all the best.”
Colwyn Bay striker Louis Robles simply described Oswell as a “Legend”, while Briton Ferry Llansawel’s Alex Gammond added: “Congratulations on your career and enjoy your retirement mate.”
