From Essex Senior League to FA Cup Dreams: Richard Kone’s Journey to Wycombe Wanderers

The past couple of days have seen non-league clubs enjoy their time in the TV spotlight as a host of ties have been shown live on national TV. 

Three of the ties have featured three players who have played their part in the past for some of our clubs.

On Saturday lunchtime Wycombe Wanderers travelled for a tricky tie away at Wealdstone, 'The Choirboys' a former Non-League side that has had their fair share of national days in the spotlight in the history of the FA Cup, who could forget their fairytale journey to the semi-finals under Lawrie Sanchez when they won away at Premier League Leicester City.

Were boosted in their ranks by former Athletic Newham Richard Kone whose remarkable rise to league status is the stuff of dreams, his goal scoring form for Athletic Newham was legendary, it was always a matter of when, not if a league club came calling.

Richard Kone’s football journey is a shining example of perseverance and natural talent. Starting in the Essex Senior League with Athletic Newham FC, the Ivorian striker quickly gained acclaim for his exceptional goal-scoring ability, accumulating over 100 goals in non-league football. His consistent performances drew the attention of several English Football League (EFL) clubs, leading to his signing with Wycombe Wanderers in January 2024.

Kone’s path to professional football was anything but simple. Despite trialling with clubs like Shrewsbury Town, Southend United, and Colchester United, it was Wycombe’s dedication that finally secured his contract. Known as 'The Chairboys,' Wycombe recognised his potential during trials, and Kone made an immediate impact by scoring on his debut in the EFL Trophy against West Ham United U21s. His sharp finishing and rapid adaptation have made him a key player for the team’s future, culminating in his 18-month contract extension, as recently covered by The Daily Mail on December 2, 2024.

From grassroots to professional leagues, Kone’s rise has drawn widespread media attention, serving as a testament to the untapped talent in England’s lower divisions. His story exemplifies the power of grassroots football and the opportunities it offers for emerging players.

In the FA Cup, known for its captivating underdog stories, Kone has further cemented his reputation. Fans and pundits eagerly anticipate how this rising star will influence Wycombe’s campaign, bringing his signature style and determination to one of football’s most storied competitions.

Kone’s journey illustrates resilience and opportunity, resonating with footballers and clubs alike. As his career unfolds, his inspiring story promises to continue captivating audiences on and off the pitch.

I'm sure that there will be much more captivating story to unfold in the Richard Kone career in our beautiful game.

Saturday evening saw Dagenham & Redbridge a club whose history includes a whole host of mergers between famous local non-league sides of yesteryear including Walthamstow Avenue & Leytonstone to name a few travels across the capital to the home of former FA Cup winners in AFC Wimbledon produced an excellent display to win 2-1, with their last line of defence being another former Barkingside old boy & Haringey & Waltham development shot stopper Elliot Justham.

Finally, Sunday lunchtime saw Kettering Town take on Doncaster Rovers in the featured live game this time former Romford boy Nile Ranger, another signing who rose to Premier League status, led the Kettering attack as they put up a gallant display before bowing out 2-1, to Rovers.

So we may not have provided any clubs that reached that far in the cup but we still managed to showcase former stars at our level to inspire others of the possibilities of what can be achieved if you are determined to follow your dreams.

Jimmy Flanagan