Two More Added to Merthyr Squad

Another couple of Martyrs.

Pitching In Southern Football League Premier Division South club Merthyr Town have announced the signing of Eli Phipps and Daniel Barnard.

Phipps returns to The Met Coaches Stadium after a short stint at Cymru South side Camarthen Town after the Martyrs had been `mothballed` in 2020/21.

The 24-year-old originally joined Merthyr in June 2020.

He started his career with Cardiff City at youth level and progressed into their under-18 and under-23 sides, being a regular and prolific goalscorer throughout.

In September 2016, the young forward went out on loan to National League North outfit Gloucester and made 3 appearances in a month-long loan spell.

In January 2017, Colchester United had seen enough of him to offer Cardiff money for the Welshman, and he made the move to the Weston Homes Community Stadium, signing a professional deal until the summer of 2018.

He was a regular within Colchester under-23s, scoring on his debut in a 2-1 win over Southend United under-23s.

After a successful time with United, Phipps was on the move again, and in September 2017 National League South side Welling United penned a one-month loan deal with the in-demand youngster.

In the summer of 2018, Phipps’ contract at Colchester ran out, and he was released by the League Two club.

In July 2018, he signed for then-National League South outfit Weston-super-Mare and then moved to Cymru Premier side Barry Town in the summer of 2019.

Barnard joins the Martyrs after featuring for Cymru South champions Swansea University in 2020/21.

The experienced defender was an integral part of the back line and cup run.

The 27-year-old was also shortlisted for a place in JD Cymru League team of season.

The commanding defender played for Llanelli FC in the Cymru League before signing for Swansea University, featuring in the majority of the Reds’ games during his spell at Steboneath, before a brief appearance at Bath City in the Vanarama National League South.

Merthyr manager Dean Clarke told his club`s website: “I’m really pleased have got these two signings over the line.

“Dan has really impressed us in pre-season and has played a pivotal role at the back. He's a confident player and is good fit in how we like to play. He's got good experience which is a massive plus for us going forward.

"Eli on the other hand is a special talent. His past experiences speak for itself so I'm really looking forward to seeing him in action. He's got great energy and is an excellent finisher, so it’s up to us to play to his strengths but he’s a good addition to the group”.

Merthyr Town Web Site