Wheeler and Babalola staying with Worthing FC – Agutter’s 25-26 squad continues to take shape

Supporters’ Player of the Season Nicky Wheeler and striker Temi Babalola are the latest duo ro sign new deals to keep them at Woodside Road.

It comes after three new signings and a number of new deals already in place for players from last season’s squad, who got the Rebels into a third successive National South play-off campaign.

Worthing announced Wheeler’s new deal, saying: “Since joining the club after a spell at Dorking Wanderers in 2023, the experienced winger has established himself as an ever-present figure down the left flank.

"In 43 National League South appearances last term, the 34-year-old recorded eight goal contributions and provided several memorable moments in the process.

“Goals against St. Albans and former employers Dorking were particularly eye-catching – with the latter being chosen as the club’s goal of the season having received 30% of votes from supporters.

"After receiving the ball just inside the opposition half, the Englishman evaded the attention of Niall McManus before setting his sights on Harrison Foulkes’ goal. From roughly 35 yards out, Nicky unleashed a swerving drive that flew past the goalkeeper and gave the fans a moment to savour on Boxing Day.

“A last-minute winner away to Chelmsford City in March preceded crucial assists in victories against Bath City and Chesham United.

Our number 11 is approaching a century of appearances for the Rebels with 81 to his name thus far. Nicky joins captain Joel Colbran, Sam Beard, Aarran Racine, Sam Packham, Glen Rea, Odei Martin Sorondo and Bailey Smith in extending their stay with the Club this summer.”

Also staying at Woodside Road is Babalola, with the Rebels saying: “The imposing forward reached double figures for goals in his first season with the Rebels, as he netted 11 times across all competitions. Eight of those came in the National League South, with his goals contributing to a record-breaking season for the Club.

“Temi announced himself almost immediately, as he broke the deadlock in the eventual 2-1 away victory over Boreham Wood to open his account in only his second appearance. Strikes against Weston-super-Mare and Weymouth followed before breaching Chippenham Town’s goal twice in our penultimate home match of the regular season.

“Temi’s importance cannot be understated. In fact, Chris Agutter’s side triumphed in each of the seven games in which the Englishman found the net.

“The remaining three goals were scored in the Sussex Transport Senior Cup, as Temi struck the opener in our 3-1 triumph over East Preston in the second round before bagging a brace in the 5-0 rout over Eastbourne United in the following round.

“Alongside his impressive goal tally, the 6’3 striker also supplied five assists in the National League South.”