AFC Telford defender Darren Campion at centre of row over claims he played for another team
AFC Telford United defender Darren Campion has found himself at the centre of a row after appearing to play in a cup final for another team under someone else's name.
Semi-pro Shropshire outfit Newport Town FC is to lodge an official complaint with the West Midlands Regional League (WMRL) after claiming Campion, 28, who this week signed a new deal with the Bucks, played against them on Saturday at Gornal Athletic's Garden Walk stadium.
Campion, who played a key role in Telford's great escape from relegation in the National League North, is said to have lined up for Wolverhampton-based Bilbrook FC in the match, the West Midlands League Division Two cup final.
Newport, who romped away with the league and were crowned division two champions, had been hot favourites – but mid-table Bilbrook lifted the trophy after a 3-2 win.
It is against league rules to field players who have not been registered by the club with the league.
The West Midlands League today confirmed an investigation would begin as soon as officials receive Newport's formal complaint.
A spokesman for Newport Town said after the game: "Several spectators recognised him before the game and when they waved over and shouted his name, he waved back. It was obvious they knew they had been caught. Watching them take the trophy onto the pitch, celebrating – it was just disappointing."
A statement released by the club added: "We can confirm that a full investigation will commence into the allegations that Bilbrook FC did in fact field an illegible player against Newport Town FC in the final of the WMRL Div 2 League Cup Final.
"Darren Campion, who is attached to AFC Telford United, is not a registered player for Bilbrook and they have played him under a different name. Newport Town FC were very disappointed that the cup was made a mockery of."
Campion plays for the Bucks on non-contract terms and though manager Rob Smith is expected to speak to the defender regarding the incident, he will not face any formal sanction from the club.
The player was contacted for a comment but did not respond, nor did Bilbrook manager Ash Cook.
