Retained list for 2026-27 season confirmed

We are pleased to share details of our retained list as it currently stands ahead of the 2026-27 season:

The following players are retained:

Lewis Brass
Daniel Capewell
Jay Errington
Kane Evans
Alfie Gordon
Leighton Hopper
Jay Hornsby
Ben Milburn
Alex Payne
Dale Pearson
Joe Robson
Joe Shepherd
Max Storey
Connor Walker

We remain in conversation with:

Nicky Deverdics

The following players have departed the Club:

Andy Burn joined the Stan in 2021 and was one of Dean Nicholson’s first signings. Featuring for the Club 223 times and scoring 22 goals including a memorable FA Vase winner at Barnoldswick Town in his first season, Burnsy has been an incredible servant to the Club. Hugely popular on and off the field, we were privileged to have him at the Stan for 5 seasons and everyone wishes him all the best for whatever comes next.

Konner Lamb joined the Stan in August 2022, linking up with Dean Nicholson having played for him at Killingworth. Konner has had a huge impact at the Club and has been a key part of our progression through the leagues, featuring 146 times and scoring 50 goals. His wonder goal in the Northern League Division One play off final will forever be etched in the Stan history books. We are extremely thankful to Konner for his contributions and wish him the best for his next challenge.

Kailem Beattie will depart the Stan having declined a new deal, after two seasons at the Club. Kailem has made 44 appearances for the Club and also spent a spell on loan at Seaham Red Star. Kailem will go on to do very well at his next Club and we all wish him the very best of luck for the future.

Sam Johnson will also depart the Club having declined a new deal. Sam joined from Whickham during last season and made a strong impact including scoring the goal of the season, voted for by the fans. We wish Sam good luck for next season and beyond.

Manager Dean Nicholson has paid tribute to Heaton Stan centurions Andy Burn and Konner Lamb as they depart the club:

“I want to say a huge thank you to Burnsy. He was one of my first signings, and he’s shown people the Heaton Stan way over the last five years. He’s created amazing memories and I wish him all the very best. Konner Lamb is another player who I can’t thank enough. We will always remember his goals and performances for this club, and he played a huge part in our rise to step 4. Good luck, lads! 🖤🤍”