Kevin Carrigan

Official Announcement: Sam Elkins to Retire from Football Milton United can confirm that tomorrow’s fixture against Abingdon United will be @sam_elkins90 final game before retiring from football. Following a persistent injury, increasing work commitments, and the desire to dedicate more time to his young family, Elk's has made the difficult decision to bring an end to his long and distinguished playing career. Sam began his footballing journey with Crowmarsh Boys and, after receiving several offers from youth setups, joined the Reading FC Academy — attracted by its proximity to home and the opportunity to work under then-coach Brendan Rodgers. Although his time at Reading did not unfold as planned, Sam went on to establish himself as a respected figure within local football. Over the years, he has amassed more than 650 senior appearances, representing clubs including @Abutdfc, @NorthLeigh_FC, @DidcotTownFC, @clannyfc, and Milton United. Renowned for his leadership and consistency in defence, Elk's also contributed numerous goals throughout his career. In 2019, Sam was appointed manager of Milton United, leading the team for three seasons before returning to playing duties and rejoining the club once again in 2023. After suffering a major knee injury in 2018, the physical demands of the game have ultimately taken their toll. Sam has chosen to conclude his career in fitting fashion — facing one of his former sides under the lights at Northcourt Road. Milton United extends its sincere thanks and best wishes to Sam for his outstanding contribution to the club and local football over the years. We grabbed a few words from @ChristiianMl. "You meet good people in life, and you meet good people in football. To have someone who’s both is something I feel very lucky and privileged to have experienced with Elks. He’s one of the good ones. If it wasn’t for Elks building the Milton team in 2018 before I took over, Milton wouldn’t be at Step 5 today. Promotion wouldn’t have happened. I owe a lot to him for what he and Tatty built before I came in, and there’s a reason a lot of the team who were with him back then are still with us now. Since coming back as a player, what he’s given the club both on and off the pitch has been unbelievable. He’s been here a couple of years now as a player, and it feels like we’ve been through a lot together. To have him as skipper has been brilliant and he’s someone I’ve leant on both professionally and personally. Elks has played through games he should never have played just to support the team and support me. That often goes unnoticed, but that’s exactly the kind of player and person he is. Now it’s time for him to enjoy retirement and focus on his new family. There’s no more fitting way for his last game than a local derby against Abingdon, in front of a big crowd this Friday. He deserves to bow out in style, and it gives us that extra bit of motivation to perform for a man who’s put this club first for so many years. Thank you Elks for everything, it’s been a pleasure brother 💜👊🏽" 💜🩵 #UTM