Like a Phoenix from the flames Ricky Jones lands at Penmaenmawr

Before Frank Butcher could say “Rickayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy” the transfer destination of a coast football hero has been revealed.

After announcing he had stepped down as Llandudno Albion joint-manager today, Ricky Jones has declared he is now a Penmaenmawr Phoenix player.

Midfield ace Jones, 32, is more than capable of making a major impact for the Phoenix, who play in the tier 4 North Wales Coast East Premier Division.

Pen manager Martyn Jones said: “We are delighted to announce the signing of Ricky Jones from Llandudno Albion.

“Ricky is taking a step back from coaching to focus on playing. A big thanks to our friends at Llandudno Albion for allowing the smooth transfer.”

Ricky moves to Cae Sling after six-and-a-bit seasons with the Albion, whom he joined in 2016-17 and netted a magnificent 20 goals in his debut campaign.

Before that, in spells with the likes of Llandudno Junction and Conwy United, Ricky had been top class at tier 3 level since the age of 16.

As well as possessing all the attributes of the classic midfielder, Ricky also scores plenty of goals. He also has a penchant for netting goals of the spectacular variety, specialising in long range efforts.

On top of his club successes, Ricky has also represented North Wales Coast FA in the Uefa Regions Cup.

After that magnificent 2016-17 season, in which he helped Llandudno Albion win the Welsh Alliance Division Two title, Ricky went on shining for the Maesdu men.

In 2017-18, he notched perhaps the most famous goal in Albion’s history to date – a late winner in a 3-2 giant-killing of Cymru Alliance side Rhyl in the Welsh Cup.

That same season saw Albion lift the Mawddach Cup.

In 2019-20, Ricky helped the team reach their first FAW Trophy final. Sadly, the game was never played due to Covid-19 ending the season early.

Last season he was part of Albion’s first campaign in the new tier 3 Ardal North West.

Ricky is seventh on the all-time Albion goalscorers list with more than 40 goals.

Football talent runs in the family, as Ricky’s brother Toby has played in the Welsh Premier for Llandudno, Rhyl, Airbus and Neath. He currently represents Llandudno in the tier 2 Cymru North.

And dad Barry is a former Conwy United manager. Bet he’s never had to shout: “Rickayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy”.

Now Penmaenmawr Phoenix represents the next stop in this excellent midfield man’s career.