Back in the starting eleven

There was a familiar and much-loved name in the Sue’s Angels starting line-up against Haydons Park.

Jimi El Bayati returned to competitive football and started at the centre of defence, completing the opening 45 minutes of the Angels’ 8–1 victory.

His appearance came only a few months after he announced his retirement following the conclusion of the club’s historic first season.

At the time, it appeared to be the perfect ending to a memorable playing career.

Jimi’s expected final appearance ended with a commanding performance, a clean sheet and a Player of the Match award. It completed a season in which he had played a central role in the defence behind the Angels’ undefeated League Ten campaign.

His influence stretched far beyond individual performances.

As the club’s first captain, Jimi helped establish the dressing-room culture during Sue’s Angels’ formation. His leadership, commitment and support for those around him helped shape the standards that carried the team through its first season.

That contribution was recognised when he received the 2025/26 Clubman of the Year award.

Following his retirement, Jimi was expected to continue supporting the club as a member of the coaching staff.

His connection to Sue’s Angels remained as strong as ever, even if his playing days appeared to be over.

Against Haydons Park, the boots came back out.

Jimi did not enter from the bench for a brief appearance after the result had been secured. He started at the centre of a three-man defence and helped the Angels establish control from the first whistle.

His experience and composure provided a platform for the team’s attacking players. Haydons Park created very little during the opening half, while Sue’s Angels scored five unanswered goals.

At half-time, Jimi made way for debutant Danny Cain.

It was a fitting transition. One of the players who helped build the club’s original standards left the pitch after an accomplished 45 minutes, allowing a new Angel to begin his own competitive journey.

The armband may now belong to McLane, but Jimi’s standing within the club has never depended solely on being captain.

He remains a leader.

He remains the reigning Clubman of the Year.

Most importantly, he remains part of the Sue’s Angels family.

His retirement closed one chapter at the end of last season.

His return against Haydons Park added an unexpected new page to the story.