Ricardo Reis: The non-league striker proves a match for Erling Haaland

Rees began his youth career at Cardiff City before moving to Bristol City where he was offered a two-year professional contract.

He never featured for Bristol but was a regular in the Under-23s before loan spells at Bath City and Salisbury.

Rhys moved to Yate Town in July 2021 and admits he had lost his love for football by then, but a move to Merthyr the following summer reignited his passion.

In front of a lively crowd – with gates regularly exceeding 1,000 – Merthyr are in great form, winning five goals on the bounce.

Rees has been decisive, scoring 11 goals in his last seven, including all four in a 4-2 win away to Telford United.

This has led to some calls on social media for Wells to be recalled.

“You never know what could happen in the coming years, but I don’t mind it,” Reese said with a laugh.

With survival being the goal of many Martyrs fans this season, they currently find themselves in a play-off position.

“It’s a fantastic club, run by the fans, which not many clubs do,” Rees said.

“It’s always nice to get a lot of love from the fans and it reflects on the pitch as well, it gives you that confidence and we are forever grateful.”

Despite offers elsewhere in August, Rees put pen to paper to keep him at the club until the end of the season.

Head coach Paul Michael was among those who convinced him to stay on to lead the offensive line and Reese has repaid that trust and more so far.

“We know what a good young coach he is and I think we are very lucky to have him,” Rees added.

Just as Penydarren Park fans are grateful to have Merthyr Haaland.