Woking have secured the return of striker Jamie Kelly on a free transfer after his contract with Wimbledon was terminated last week, giving the club a proven goal‑scorer ahead of the final stretch of the season.

Who is Jamie Kelly and why does his comeback matter?

Kelly, 27, spent two seasons at Wimbledon where he netted 12 league goals before being released in early July. His previous spell at Woking during the 2022‑23 campaign saw him score eight times, helping the club to a mid‑table finish. The forward’s familiarity with the Bishops Stortford ground and his knack for finding space in the box make him an instant asset. Manager Darren Sarll praised the move, noting that Kelly’s “work ethic and finishing instincts” fit the squad’s style perfectly.

How does the signing fit Woking’s current season?

Woking sit 10th in the National League with 63 points after 46 games, recording 16 wins, 15 draws and 15 losses. Their recent form reads LWDWD, and they suffered a 0‑1 defeat to FC Halifax Town on 25 April 2026. Adding Kelly gives Sarll a proven option up front as the team looks to improve a goal difference of +15 (69 scored, 54 conceded). The club remains 45 points behind leaders York, but a stronger attack could turn draws into wins and push them higher in the table.

What are the expectations for Kelly’s impact?

Sarll expects Kelly to start training within days and be match‑ready for the next fixture against Aldershot Town. The striker’s ability to hold up play and link with midfielders like Aaron Collins could free up space for wingers such as James O’Connor. If Kelly replicates his Wimbledon form, Woking could see an increase of at least three goals per month, a boost that might convert the two recent losses into points.

What does this mean for Woking’s transfer strategy?

The free‑transfer deal underscores Sarll’s pragmatic approach: targeting experienced players familiar with the club rather than splashing cash on untested talent. Kelly’s return also sends a signal to the fanbase that the club is still active in the market despite a modest budget. With the season entering its final phase, the management hopes the signing will spark a late‑season surge and keep the team comfortably in the top half of the table.

Woking’s next match is scheduled for 12 July 2026 against Southend United, where Kelly could make his debut. If he finds the net, the club will have turned a quiet summer signing into an immediate talking point, reinforcing their ambition to climb the National League ladder.