On Saturday, shockwaves emanated across Wales as Welsh Premier League side Haverfordwest County confirmed the signing of Jazz Richards.
It is, by all accounts, a real statement of intent for the Pembrokeshire club.
With him, Richards brings bountiful pedigree that will no doubt prove invaluable at the Bridge Meadow Stadium.
Since making his International debut in 2012, Richards went on to win twelve caps for Wales and was part of the historic EURO 2016 squad which reached the semi finals.
Along with this, the 29-year old has plied his trade at the highest level during separate spells with fierce-blooded rivals Swansea and Cardiff City.
Last term, Richards made eleven appearances for the Bluebirds in the Championship prior to his release in June 2020 and, at long last, has finally found a home again.
Numerous EFL sides had registered an interest in the Swansea native and whilst it appears an astounding move on the eye, Richards gave Sgorio the lowdown on why he opted to join Wayne Jones’ side.
“Well from one Bluebirds to the next. What it was, I finished with Cardiff City last season and really didn’t know what to do next,” said Richards.
“I was hoping to go abroad somewhere and a few other things popped up but I was close to just finishing football completely.
“And Wolvesy (Wayne Jones) gave me the opportunity to come down here and play games and you know, in the end, this is what I wanted to do and more so for the enjoyment.
“I know a few of the lads here, there’s a good group of lads and I do miss kicking a ball but don’t really miss anything that comes with it.
“It’s more of just finding the enjoyment again and the opportunity was to come down here and play and I took it, and I’m thankful to Wayne and the other members of staff that’s greeted me in.
The move is subject to International clearance and if granted by Monday, Richards could make his debut as soon as Tuesday in County’s away trip to Aberystwyth Town.
“I’m fit and ready to go” the Welsh defender added.
“Obviously not match fit but I’ve been trying to keep as fit as I can myself but even if I’m at 60%, I’m sure I can give something but I’m looking forward to getting out on the pitch so I wouldn’t say no now, but I’m hoping I can be ready for Tuesday.”
Richards is not the first professional with Swansea City heritage to venture into the realms of Welsh domestic football.
The likes of Leon Britton, Lee Trundle and former Wales teammate David Cotterill, who also made the EURO 2016 squad, have all enjoyed spells in the Cymru Premier as of late.
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