Tilley Joins Town Midfield

Rugby Town are pleased to announce the signing of midfielder Charlie Tilley.

The 23-year-old joins Valley after playing a key role in Droitwich Spa's promotion-winning season in 2025 and netting 13 goals from midfield during their play-off run last term in the Hellenic League Premier.

A product of Worcester City's youth system, Tilley joined Droitwich in 2022 and enjoyed a good deal of success during his four years at the club, making over 200 appearances.

He helped Spa secure promotion from Step 6 in 2025 before being practically ever-present in their third-place finish and play-off final appearance in Step 5 last season, making over 50 appearance.

His consistency and influence were recognised with multiple individual honours, including Managers', Players' and Supporters' Player of the Season awards across the last two campaigns.

Manager Grant Joshua revealed Tilley had been a priority target throughout the summer: "Charlie is one we targeted earlier on in the summer and had good, positive conversations with, but it was always going to be a hard decision to move on from somewhere where you've been for such a long period of time and built your reputation.

"I completely understood and respected his stance of not rushing into a decision and after all that, I am really pleased that he's agreed to join us".

Joshua believes Tilley's reliability and durability will be a major asset: "He's proven in loyalty, longevity, durability and quality. Charl started 52 games last season and that was a huge plus for us when we identified him early doors."

The Town boss also highlighted the midfielder's energy and attacking qualities: "He's someone who I'd like to go into battle with. Non-stop, a ball winner and will be one of our high pressers from that area.

"Adding to his already impressive attributes, he's a goal threat as well from the middle of the park."

Joshua feels Tilley's arrival further strengthens a competitive midfield group: "He joins Duffs, Sam and Devonn in there and I'm very pleased with that, and the fact we have different attributes in all of them depending on what type of game it is. That sets us in good stead in that area of the pitch."