Boston United have confirmed that striker Tony Weston is among six loanees to return to their parent clubs following the conclusion of the National League season.
The former Rangers and Blackpool forward had spent the campaign at the Jakemans Community Stadium on loan from Derby County. Although he failed to find the net in league action, Weston made 26 appearances for the Pilgrims and played his part in a remarkable run of form that secured their survival against the odds.
Boston appeared destined for an immediate return to National League North earlier in the campaign, but a resurgence under manager Graham Coughlan saw them win 10 and draw two of their final 16 matches to complete an improbable great escape.
Boston United Statement
In a statement, the club expressed gratitude to Weston and his fellow loanees: defender Noah Wadsworth (Hull City), midfielders Greg Sloggett (Hartlepool United) and Oisin Gallagher (Lincoln City), and strikers Jimmy Knowles (Accrington Stanley) and James Gale (Mansfield Town).
“They all depart with the club’s thanks and best wishes for the future. We also thank the loaning clubs for their support throughout the season,” read the statement from Boston United.
Weston had joined Derby in the summer of 2023 after being released by Rangers. He made an immediate impression with the Rams, featuring in a resounding EFL Trophy win over Wolves before being sent out to gain senior experience. Despite not scoring in the National League, his energy and movement provided a consistent outlet in Boston’s frontline.
Contract Finishing
With his contract at Derby due to expire this summer, questions remain over the 21-year-old’s next move. His time in Boston may not have delivered goals, but the experience of regular senior football could yet prove valuable in shaping the next stage of his career.
Boston, meanwhile, will now begin preparations for their second consecutive season in the fifth tier, buoyed by the momentum generated under Coughlan’s leadership.
Writer’s View
Boston United’s survival was one of the stories of the National League season, and while Tony Weston didn’t hit the scoresheet, his contribution shouldn’t be overlooked. His movement and work rate fit well into the Pilgrims’ late-season revival.
The fact that six loan players are departing highlights the scale of the task facing Coughlan this summer, but he’s shown already that he can mould a side under pressure.
As for Weston, he’s had senior experience at a crucial stage of his development—now he needs a platform where he can translate that into goals. Whether that’s at Derby or elsewhere remains to be seen.
