Dylan Mottley-Henry chooses Chester exit
Last season's leading scorer has departed the Deva Stadium
Dylan Mottley-Henry has left Chester in order to pursue new opportunities.
The 28-year-old forward was a revelation for the Blues last season, particularly in the latter months of the season, after being recast from a winger into a central striker.
The former Bradford City, Barnsley and Tranmere Rovers man was a huge hit with the Deva Stadium faithful last season, ending the season with 12 goals in 44 National League North games, his season coming to a close as he limped off with injury in the play-off eliminator defeat at Macclesfield.
His form had seen him pick up the CFU Men’s Player of the Year, Away Travel Player of the Year, and Gary Talbot Golden Boot awards at the Blues’ end-of-season awards dinner last month, and there was hope in the Chester camp that Mottley-Henry would commit to another season.
New Chester manager Phil Parkinson had taken a watching brief for the final games of the Blues’ season, when they made a remarkable late charge for a play-off spot, and he had been impressed with what he had seen and been keen to keep the forward as part of his plans for the 2026/27 campaign.
But despite being offered improved terms by the Blues, who are to add another day to their training schedule heading into next season, Mottley-Henry, who is training to be an electrician, has opted to make the move away and find a new club for the new season.
His decision will undoubtedly come as a blow to many Chester fans, such was his popularity and what he brought to the team, but the next week is likely to see a number of arrivals through the door as the Parkinson era begins to take shape, with one of those additions being a striker who the new Blues boss believes can deliver the goals that Chester lacked last season.
A club statement read: “Chester FC can confirm that Dylan Mottley-Henry will depart the club this summer.
“Dylan was offered improved terms by the club ahead of next season but has decided to pursue opportunities elsewhere.
“Everyone at Chester Football Club would like to thank Dylan for his contribution to the football club and wish him all the best for the future.”