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FC United say goodbye to long-serving captain

FC United say goodbye to long-serving captain

FC United of Manchester have announced the departure of captain Charlie Ennis, bringing to an end the midfielder's seven-year association with the club.

Ennis leaves having made 273 appearances for FC United, scoring 55 goals.

 

Made club captain at the start of the 2022/23 season, FC United say Ennis became "one of the defining players" of the club's recent history.

 

Silverware was also achieved during his time at Broadhurst Park, in the shape of two Fenix Trophies.

 

One of those triumphs came during the competition's inaugural year - a run which saw the Reds play in Warsaw and Milan.

 

FC United say Ennis' decision to leave the club will allow him to pursue playing opportunities elsewhere.

 

“FC United has been a massive part of my life for the last seven years, and I've got memories from my time here that I'll carry with me forever," he said.

 

“To have played 273 times for this club and had the honour of captaining it is something I'm incredibly proud of.

 

"We've shared some unbelievable experiences - the European trips and winning the Fenix Trophy twice obviously stand out - but it's the people and the supporters that I'll probably miss most.

 

“There's always been a special relationship between the players and supporters at FC. I've understood what pulling on the shirt means to people, and I've always tried to give everything I could whenever I've worn it.

 

“It's difficult to say goodbye after seven years, but the time is right for me to take on a new challenge and keep playing football. I can't thank the supporters enough for the backing they've given me and my family throughout my time here.

 

“I'll always have a huge affection for FC United, and I'll definitely be back at Broadhurst Park. Thank you for everything.”

 

Ennis is one of a select number of players to have passed the 200-game milestone for FC United, having become the 10th player to achieve the feat against Leek Town back in November 2024.

 

Ennis' 50th FC United goal came later that season, and he remains one of only nine players to have hit the half-century for the club.

 

In reaching 250 appearances, Ennis has also matched the achievements of only three players before him - Jerome Wright, Matty Wolfenden and Tom Greaves.

 

“Seven years is a long time in football, and there aren't many players who stay at one club long enough to build the relationship with supporters that Charlie has," said FC United chair Nick Bloom.

 

“What I'll remember most about Charlie isn't a statistic. It's that he understood FC United. He understood what the club means to people and the responsibility that comes with representing it.

 

“He's also done an enormous amount for FC away from the pitch. Much of that will never be known about because Charlie isn't somebody who looks for recognition for it. I think that says a lot about him.

 

“I'm speaking as chair, but also as one of the thousands of FC supporters who have watched him in our shirt over the last seven years.

 

"Thank you, Charlie. It's been a privilege having you represent our club, and you'll always be welcome back at Broadhurst Park.”