Welling United can confirm that midfielder James Vaughan has departed the club to resume his playing career in the USA.

28-year-old Vaughan joined the Wings from Eastbourne Borough in the summer and captained the club during the early part of the 2023/24 season, making 14 league and cup appearances.

Wings boss Danny Bloor said: “James is someone I’ve known for a long time. He’s always had a burning desire to return to America to play on a full-time basis and it was an opportunity that he didn’t want to turn down.

“All of us at Welling United wish James the very best in his pursuit of success in the United States and he will always be welcome at Welling United Football Club.”

Vaughan, meanwhile, wished to share the following message with supporters: “Thank you for all your support over my time at Welling United.

“It’s been an honour and pleasure to wear the club’s shirt and lead the team out in front of all you fans. You made me feel at home from the first game against Charlton and I can’t thank you enough for that! Best of luck for the rest of the season. Up the Wings!”

Vaughan has spent much of his career in the USA having earned a University scholarship. After representing University side Northwood Timberwolves, he embarked on spells with AFC Ann Arbor, Michigan Bucks and Detroit City in the USL Championship before returning to the UK and he will now cross the Atlantic once again.

The club would like to thank James for all of his efforts during his time with Welling United and wish him all the very best for his future career.