Michael Anthony Timlin (born 19 March 1985) is a professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for National League South club Dulwich Hamlet.
Born in Lambeth, England, Timlin graduated through the Fulham Academy, making his debut in a League Cup game in 2004. During this time he spent time on loan at Scunthorpe United, Doncaster Rovers and Swindon Town before joining Swindon permanently in 2008. In 2010, he moved to Southend United on loan, reuniting him with former Southend manager Paul Sturrock again having previously played under him at Swindon. In January 2012, Timlin made a permanent transfer to Southend United, after his second loan spell with them had ended. He helped the club to secure promotion out of League Two in 2014–15. The midfielder signed for Stevenage in June 2018 and played an integral part during their 2018/2019 season. Timlin was out of contract the following summer and, due to personal reasons, decided not to agree to an extension. Subsequently, Timlin re-signed for the club in September 2019 on a short-term contract playing under a different manager to his previous spell. In January 2020, Timlin signed for Ebbsfleet United however due to a transfer embargo in place on the club at the time, he was unable to make his debut until mid-February. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the National League season was curtailed in April with Timlin having made just 4 league appearances. In August 2020 it was announced the midfielder had joined Dulwich Hamlet in a role combining playing for the first team and coaching in the academy.
Timlin has played internationally for the Republic of Ireland eight times at under-21 level.
Club career
Fulham
Timlin joined the Fulham Academy at a young age and, with first team appearances being limited, he spent loan spells at Scunthorpe United, Doncaster Rovers and Swindon Town. After making his debut in a League Cup match against Boston United in 2004, Timlin only played a few competitive games (four in total). At the end of the 2007/2008 season Timlin agreed a permanent move to Swindon Town.
That debut season was otherwise one of frustration, as injuries to the back and metatarsal ruled the Irishman out for long periods. Having initially played as a winger while at the Fulham Academy, he has now matured into a central midfielder.
Timlin also captained the Ireland U-21s to victory in the 2006 Madeira Cup.
Swindon Town
In November 2006, he joined League Two promotion chasers Swindon Town. He made his debut for Swindon against Bury on 25 November. He scored his first goal for Swindon at home to Notts County, which earned them a point. Timlin's performances saw Paul Sturrock attempt to extend the loan deal. Chris Coleman agreed to the extension on the terms that Timlin extended his full contract with Fulham.
On 13 March 2008, Timlin rejoined Swindon on loan for the remainder of the season, making 10 appearances. On 3 May, hours after the conclusion of the 2007–08 League One season, it was announced that he had joined Swindon on a permanent two-year deal. He officially joined his new club on 1 July 2008. Ahead of the 2008–09 season, Timlin was given the number 4 shirt.
Timlin began the 2008/2009 season in his preferred central midfield role. However, Maurice Malpas took Timlin out for the visit of Leeds United, and on his return to the squad a week later, he appeared on the left side of midfield. Towards the end of October, when Malpas' defensive-minded approach hadn't appeared to work, Timlin was moved to yet another new position on the left side of the defence to fill the gap of injured Jamie Vincent. Adapting well, Timlin also stood in as captain in the absence of Hasney Aljofree. Maurice Malpas was sacked in November, and Timlin moved back to central midfield under caretaker manager David Byrne.
As Danny Wilson took charge, Timlin was playing at left side of defence again, but after Wilson's first game in charge, Timlin was moved to the left side of midfield and then back to central midfield. Timlin was ever-present in the centre of midfield for the remainder of the season, only missing two games through suspension. The 2009–10 season was frustrating for Timlin as he spent most of the season on the bench, during which time the club was making their attempt to reach the Championship, losing out to Millwall in the Playoff Final at Wembley. Despite a lack of first opportunities, Timlin signed a new one-year deal after being offered a new contract.