‘Weird’ – Former Charlton and Wimbledon striker opens up on wait for club football

Former Charlton Athletic, Millwall and AFC Wimbledon forward Lyle Taylor admitted it was a “weird” feeling playing club football again.

The 33-year-old has been without a club since he was released by Nottingham Forest in the summer.

Taylor had featured under Lee Bowyer for the Montserrat national team since leaving the City Ground, but he has not played a competitive game in league or cup football since lining up on loan at Birmingham City in May 2022 for their final Championship outing of the 2021-22 campaign.

The Greenwich-born forward scored 55 goals in 150 appearances for Wimbledon before moving on to Charlton in June 2018. He bagged 36 goals in 67 appearances for the Addicks.

Taylor had a trial with Sheffield Wednesday before joining League One Wycombe, making his debut for the club in Saturday’s 1-0 EFL Trophy win over Wimbledon.

“It’s really difficult to put into words exactly what it means,” he told Wycombe’s YouTube channel.

“It was such a weird feeling getting ready to play a game.

“The last game I competitive game I played in the Football League would have been for Birmingham 18 months ago.

“It was really nice to be getting ready to play a game of football again.

“I’m really glad I’m here. It’s been a weird summer and autumn for me, but I’m glad I’m here.

“I have been doing my training and playing international football.

“It’s going to be a challenge for me. It’s difficult to put enough emphasis on being back and somewhere I’m wanted. I’m really looking forward to getting started in the league.”