Since earning promotion from the Isthmian Premier Division three years ago, Worthing have firmly established themselves as perennial playoff contenders in the National League South, securing a top-seven finish in each of those seasons. As they aim to extend that streak this year, one issue looms: the departure of Danny Cashman.
After an impressive campaign, the influential playmaker has joined Crawley following the expiration of his contract. Cashman was central to Worthing’s attacking threat, operating in the No. 10 role and netting 16 goals last season.He's not the only key exit. Goalkeeper Chris Haigh and forward Tommy Willard have moved on to Chelmsford and Salisbury, respectively, while Liam Nash has dropped down to Billericay. Perhaps most significantly, talismanic striker Muhammadu Faal has left to pursue an opportunity abroad.
But if recent history is any guide, Worthing are more than capable of weathering such departures. They finished fourth last season despite losing four key players: Ollie Pearce, Joe Rye, Joe Felix, and Brad Dolaghan.In a timely boost, Dolaghan—released by West Ham—has now returned to the club. His firepower, along with that of Nathan Odokonyero, should help maintain Worthing's attacking edge. Odokonyero, who scored 34 goals for Bognor Regis in 2022/23, saw his time at Ebbsfleet hampered by injury, but he has already proven his worth at this level, scoring nine times in 14 appearances during a loan spell with Tonbridge Angels. Dolaghan also impressed in limited action two years ago, netting seven goals in just nine games. His return could be key to unlocking Worthing’s forward line.
Manager Chris Agutter enters his second season in charge following his arrival from Hastings. His recruitment has been sharp, with a focus on unearthing talent from Step Three. New arrivals Matt Burgess (Bognor Regis), Kwaku Frimpong (Carshalton), and Toby Byron (Wingate & Finchley) all bring depth and versatility.Burgess made a controversial move from Bognor, but his drive and leadership should be vital in midfield. Frimpong offers energy and control in tight spaces, adding a new dimension to an already deep midfield.
That midfield also includes Glen Rea, Martin Odei, and the outstanding Jack Spong. Retaining Spong—arguably the best player in the league—is a major win for Worthing. His ability to dictate the tempo makes him the heartbeat of the side. With Cashman gone, Spong may be pushed into a more advanced role, but his influence in the middle remains the team’s biggest asset.
In defence, the extension of Joel Colbran’s stay is a huge positive. His leadership and engine from right-back are crucial to Agutter’s system. Sam Beard and Joe Cook were standout performers last term, and the addition of Harry Ransom from Sutton further strengthens the back line.
The goalkeeping position has been an area of uncertainty, with neither Chris Haigh nor Lucas Covolan fully convincing. Enter 19-year-old Seb Stacey, on loan from MK Dons after impressing at Hitchin Town. Stacey is known for his distribution and could finally bring the consistency Worthing have been seeking between the posts.
All things considered, there’s a lot to like about this Worthing side. They have goals in abundance, a well-organized defence, and a midfield that many in the league would envy. The squad looks balanced and competitive, and they’re well-positioned to challenge once again.Still, question marks remain. The losses of Cashman and Faal are significant, and it's unclear whether they can keep pace with the league’s frontrunners. Yet with Agutter’s tactical acumen and the overall quality of the squad, Worthing will surely be in the playoff hunt again. Whether they can take the next step and contend for the title remains to be seen.
Prediction: 5th
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