Back to news
Club News

Akinola Crowned Fans' Favourite as Hyde Departs Kingfield Ahead of New Season

Woking FC fans have recognized midfielder Timmy Akinola as their Player of the Season for his outstanding contributions on the pitch. Meanwhile, the club confirms the departure of experienced striker Jake Hyde, marking a transitional period for the Cards.

Apr 30, 2026

As the dust settles on another captivating National League campaign at Kingfield, Woking Football Club finds itself reflecting on individual brilliance and preparing for changes ahead. The biggest headline reverberating around the terraces is the deserved recognition bestowed upon our midfield powerhouse, Timmy Akinola, who has been overwhelmingly voted the Cards Trust Fans' Player of the Season. This accolade is a testament to his relentless work ethic, dynamic performances, and undeniable impact on the pitch throughout a challenging yet memorable season for the Cards.

From the moment Akinola first laced up his boots in the red and white this past term, he quickly established himself as a fan favourite. His tireless engine, ability to break up opposition play, and drive to push forward have been crucial in many of our hard-fought encounters. Whether shielding the backline with robust tackles or launching swift counter-attacks with his powerful runs, Akinola's presence in the engine room was consistently felt. The Kingfield faithful have watched him grow into an indispensable figure, demonstrating a maturity and commitment that belied his age at times. His energy levels seemed boundless, often making him the catalyst for shifts in momentum during games, turning defensive situations into offensive opportunities. This award isn't just about his individual skill; it's a nod to his unwavering effort, commitment, and the sheer graft he put in every single week, becoming the beating heart of our midfield. He truly embodied the fighting spirit we expect from every player who dons the Woking shirt, and this recognition from the supporters is undoubtedly well-earned.

While we celebrate one standout performer, Woking FC has also confirmed a significant departure from the attacking ranks with the official exit of experienced striker Jake Hyde. Hyde's tenure at Kingfield, regrettably, was largely hampered by a series of unfortunate injuries that restricted his ability to truly make his mark. Signed with much anticipation, his pedigree as a proven goalscorer at this level was undeniable, having bagged crucial goals for previous clubs. Though his time on the pitch in a Woking shirt was limited, his professionalism and dedication behind the scenes were always apparent. It's always a tough moment when a player moves on, especially one who arrived with such high hopes, and we wish Jake nothing but the very best in his next chapter. We hope he finds a club where he can shake off his injury woes and rediscover the form that made him such a feared forward in non-league football for so long. His experience, even when not playing, would have provided valuable guidance in the dressing room.

As one player is crowned and another embarks on a new journey, Woking FC stands at a pivotal juncture. The recognition of Akinola’s stellar season provides a blueprint for the kind of passion and performance the fans crave. The changes in the squad, while inevitable, also present an opportunity for new talents to emerge and for the club to reshape its ambitions for the forthcoming campaign. With the summer transfer window now fully open, all eyes will be on the management team as they work tirelessly to build a squad capable of challenging at the right end of the National League table. The spirit shown by Akinola and the memories of Hyde’s contributions will undoubtedly fuel our collective aspirations as we prepare to embark on another thrilling season at Kingfield. Up the Cards!