The prolific arrived at the club from Maldon & Tiptree in September 2023, and made his Herne Bay debut in an FA Trophy match against Leatherhead, coming off the bench before half-time. Despite the team suffering a 6-1 loss, Salako managed to score his first of many goals for the club with a tap-in at the back post. He followed it up by making his first start in the blue and white stripes 10 days later, away at Sheppey United, in the Isthmian League Cup.

Salako brought a great deal of leadership and experience to the team throughout his 52 appearances for Herne Bay FC, spanning across both his seasons at the club.

He had an outstanding 2023/24 season for Herne Bay FC, scoring 27 goals in 38 games across all competitions. Mikey Salako scored his first hat-trick against Three Bridges, becoming the first Herne Bay player to score a hat-trick at Winch’s Field since Bay had joined the Isthmian League in 2012/13.

His performances earned him the Supporters' Player of the Year award, and despite receiving offers from higher-division clubs, he chose to stay at Herne Bay for the 2024/25 campaign. In the 2024/25 season, Salako showcased his consistency and reliability at the club, bagging an impressive 23 goals during a lacklustre season.

He also broke a club record, becoming the top scorer from open play during Herne Bay's Isthmian League tenure. On 11/03/2025, Salako bagged his 44th open play goal in a 5-1 win vs. Erith Town.

ACHIEVMENTS

2023/24 Top Goalscorer Award
2023/24 Supporters' Player of the Year Award
2024/25 Top Goalscorer Award
2024/25 Manager's Player of the Year Award
2024/25 Goal of the Season

Our manager, Liam Friend, had this to say: "Mikey's actions over the last weeks really do back up his words to the fans. He truly does love the people and the club. His performances and goals mean he will always be welcome back to Herne Bay. From both myself as a teammate and a manager, I would like to send a massive thank you to Mikey from everyone at the club. We wish him all the best as he moves to a club closer to home.

A MESSAGE FROM SALAKO

"After much thought, I have decided to depart from the club to pursue new opportunities closer to home.

I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who makes this club special - the staff, volunteers, media team and, of course, the incredible Herne Bay faithful. Your support and dedication never go unnoticed.

I want to also add a mention to the new manager, Liam Friend. He's been instrumental to my success at the club, both on and off the pitch. I wish him the very best of luck with his new role.

This club will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for everything.

- Mikey Salako

We just want to say a massive thank you for everything you've done for the club. From your incredible goal tally to the unforgettable moments you've given the fans, you've left a lasting mark on the team. You gave everything on the pitch, and we couldn’t have asked for more.

We wish you all the best in your next chapter—wherever football takes you, you'll always be part of the Bay family.