Flint Town United: Zimbabwe and Wales internationals among nine players heading transfer exits

Flint Town United are set for a major squad overhaul this summer after confirming that nine players will leave the club.

The Silkmen have published their retained and released list, which includes six players who were not offered new contracts and three who have decided to pursue new opportunities after receiving initial offers from the club.

Lee Fowler’s side reached the Welsh Cup final this season, but were comfortably beaten by Caernarfon Town at Rodney Parade.

The Silkmen also secured their Cymru Premier status on the final day of the campaign, surviving relegation after a 2-2 draw with Cardiff Met.

Flint have also confirmed that announcements regarding potential new signings will be made once the transfer window officially opens on June 15. While several Cymru Premier clubs have already unveiled their summer recruits, those deals will not be formally completed until the registration period begins later this month.

Zimbabwe and Wales internationals to depart

Among the most notable of the nine departures are Alec Mudimu and Jake Phillips, both of whom boast international experience. The 26-time international Mudimu was named in Zimbabwe’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, although he did not feature during the tournament, having previously represented his country at the competition.

The 31-year-old returned to the Welsh domestic game last August following spells with Cefn Druids, Caernarfon Town and an earlier stint with Flint. He leaves the Essity Stadium after making 22 appearances in all competitions.

Phillips, meanwhile, is a former Wales C international, having featured in the side’s 4-0 victory over England in Caernarfon in March 2022. The 29-year-old was one of the most creative Welsh players in the Cymru Premier last season, registering 11 assists and a goal in 30 appearances.

He departs Flint after rejoining the club in 2023 following a season with Airbus UK Broughton. Phillips has also represented Newtown, Bangor City, Cefn Druids and Connah’s Quay during his career.

Experienced forward Darren Stephenson also departs after scoring nine goals in 34 appearances this season. It has since been announced that he has joined their nearby rivals Connah’s Quay for the upcoming UEFA Conference League campaign.

Midfielder Ben Wynne moves on following a productive campaign in which he registered nine goals and three assists in 30 matches. The former Caernarfon Town man joined Flint in 2024.

Josh Jones leaves the club after three years, having arrived from Ruthin Town in 2023. He departs with an overall record of 38 goals and 17 assists in 105 appearances, the majority of which came during Flint’s time in the Cymru North.

Osebi Abadaki is another player to leave, despite only joining the club in January. The 35-year-old made 13 appearances and provided three assists during his short spell at the Essity Stadium.

Oliver Kilner was another player whose spell at the club proved brief, having joined from American side Twin City in February. He made just one appearance for the Silkmen, coming off the bench in a 2-0 win over Llanelli Town.

Evan Smith also leaves after a short stint at the Essity Stadium. The left-back joined from Bala Town in January and made two appearances during his time with the club. Harry Cartwright also departs this summer, bringing an end to his spell with Flint.

Manager’s goodbye to Flint Town United departees and update

Commenting on the departures to the official club website, manager Lee Fowler said, “I would personally like to thank all the players who have pulled on the shirt for this club and for me. I wish them nothing but success moving forward – unless it’s against us!

“A special mention goes to JJ, Ben Wynne and Jake Phillips. These three have played a huge part in everything we have achieved at the club: promotion, two successful seasons staying up, and reaching a Welsh Cup Final.

“We have shared so many great memories both on and off the football pitch, and I wish them all the very best for the future.

“When the transfer window opens on June 15, we will have plenty of positive news to share, so keep your eyes peeled. New kits, a new kit manufacturer and, most importantly, new signings.”