The Chronicle

Armstrong delighted to sign striker

- By JEFF BOWRON

BLYTH Spartans manager Alun Armstrong has finally got the big striker he has been looking for with Greg Rutherford joining the club.

The 23-year-old has signed for Spartans after leaving Scottish outfit Berwick Rangers, having also played for Alloa and Arbroath.

At 6ft 4in, Tynesider Rutherford will give the Blyth front line a focal point it has been lacking this season.

Armstrong said: “I have been looking for a replacemen­t for Luke Armstrong since he joined Middlesbro­ugh in the summer.

“We have continued to score goals but having a big man available to play up front increases our options.

“I’m delighted the search is over and I have been wanting to strengthen the squad by bringing in a centre-forward and centreback.”

As well as playing for three clubs over the border Rutherford featured briefly at both Hartlepool and Dover Athletic.

He made 10 appearance­s for Hartlepool, nine off the bench, and three substitute appearance­s for Conference premier club Dover.

Rutherford said: “I’ve lived in the North East all my life, so I’ve had to travel to Scotland for pretty much every team I’ve played for.

“Finally, I’m settled here and I’ve got a job that I can balance alongside my football.

“First thing I’ll bring is hard work, as I always give 110%.

“I’m a striker who loves to get in behind the defence and be a menace up front.

“I’d like to score 10-15 goals – but I’m a team player and, as long as the team is scoring and we’re picking up points, I’ll be happy.”

Blyth, who host Nuneaton Town on Saturday, will now attempt to get the striker’s internatio­nal clearance through as soon as possible.

 ??  ?? Blyth boss Alun Armstrong
Blyth boss Alun Armstrong

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