Hampton & Richmond FC can confirm the departure of Defender Luis Fernandez, 22, to National League club Eastleigh FC for an undisclosed fee. Luis departs Beveree Stadium following two successful seasons in the National League South, where the Centre-Back established himself as a key figure for the Beavers.
Enfield born Luis arrived at the Bev in May 2022, signing from Stevenage where he made his first team debut against Southend United in August 2019, whilst still only 17. Whilst with Stevenage, Luis also enjoyed two loan spells in the National League - with Oxford City in 2020/21, then spending 2021/22 with King's Lynn Town. Fernandez was part of the Oxford side which reached the FA Trophy quarter final and the FA Cup second round.
After signing for Hampton & Richmond, Luis quickly became a fan favourite, despite seeing much of his first few months in TW12 curtailed by injury. In November 2022, the Defender grabbed his first of five goals that season away at Dulwich Hamlet, demonstrating a knack for finding the net from set-pieces. He added a further three to his name during this campaign, where he was a constant figure in the Starting XI, even wearing the captain's armband in our final game of the season. In and around his own box, Luis was constantly seen organising the back-line, making key challenges and interceptions, and the occasional goal-line clearance to the rapturous applause of the Bev.
Luis Fernandez now joins Step 1 side Eastleigh for an undisclosed fee, with the full backing and support of everyone at Hampton & Richmond. Upon his departure, Luis said "I'd like to thank everyone involved at Hampton & Richmond for being so amazing during my time here. The coaches, the staff and the fans have been so supportive whilst I've been here and helped me so much in my footballing journey. I'm really excited by what the future holds for me, and it wouldn't be possible without the environment created by everyone here that allows players to be themselves and improve. I can't wait to see Alan in the dugout, he lives and breathes this place, so I think supporters are in for a real treat." He finished. "I'd like to wish everyone at the Club all the best for the coming season and I know Hampton & Richmond will only get better."
New Boss Alan Julian admitted his excitement for Luis. "He absolutely deserves this. He's a player who was in an EFL setting, and then came here to the National League South and just cracked on with it. Sometimes that drop can be hard to take, but working with him, I believe the club played a big part in helping him and other players push on after setbacks and get back to playing some excellent football." He said, "Luis has always been a credit to himself and represented the Club with pride and commitment. He will do brilliantly in the next division, and I'm sure he wont stop there."
We wish you the very best of luck Luis!