Happy birthday: veteran supreme Darren “Chicken” Jones

He once played for Bangor City in Europe and is still going strong into his 40’s.

Happy birthday Darren Jones, affectionately known as “Chicken”, who is 42 today.

Currently with tier 4 club Menai Bridge Tigers, Darren has enjoyed an illustrious career covering all levels of the Welsh pyramid.

A former Manchester City apprentice, back in 2002-03, he came on as a sub in both legs of Bangor’s Uefa Cup tie against Sartid Smederevo of Yugoslavia.

City won the first leg 1-0, Paul Roberts on target, but were unfortunately beaten 2-0 away.

Nonetheless, it was a great experience for a Bangor lad then in his early 20s, who went on to represent the Citizens in the Welsh Premier and various cups that season.

A composed left-sided midfielder, Darren was one of the beneficiaries of City manager Peter Davenport’s policy of giving local talent its chance.

Jones moved on to Glantraeth, where in 2005-06 he was part of a double-winning side which lifted both the Cymru Alliance title and League Cup.

Further success followed when Darren joined Bethesda Athletic of the Welsh Alliance in the 2008-09 season.

Then managed by Chris O’Neal, Jones joined several other Bangor area players in a record-breaking squad which won the league championship and Cookson Cup.

In 2018-19, Darren was part of the Menai Bridge Tigers squad which won the Gwynedd League.

He has just signed up for his third season with the Anglesey club.

Manager Aaron Rowlands said: “He was one of our most consistent performers last season and was a real menace in the middle of the park, breaking up play and setting up our attacks from deep.

“I’m chuffed that Chick has decided to do another year with us, he was my standout player last year.

“He didn’t miss a training session and played through a few injuries as well when we were short on numbers, he was an 8/10 every week.

“Chick is also a massive part of our changing room and his experience and desire to win football matches is a huge asset to this club.”