Holmes’ move to Blyth was elementary
BLYTH Spartans have snapped up their second signing of the summer, and it is another from South Shields.
Alex Nicholson returned to Blyth after a spell with the Mariners and now young forward Jamie Holmes has moved to Croft Park.
The former Newcastle United academy graduate chipped in with 13 goals in 47 appearances in his one season at South Shields, helping them to promotion in the process.
Blyth boss Alun Armstrong believes the 20-year-old’s versatility will be a big plus as the striker steps up to National League North level.
He said: “Holmes had a year left on his contract at South Shields but fell out of favour at the back-end of the season.
“He wants a new challenge and to play higher and he certainly has the ability to do so.
“He can play in various attacking positions and we did well to get him as there were other clubs in for him.
“There are goals in him and he’ll fit in nicely with the squad and give us more attacking options.”
The majority of last season’s squad remain at Blyth – though backup goalkeeper Shaun MacDonald, also formerly of Gateshead, has attracted Football League interest.
Former Hibernian and Inverness Caledonian Thistle schemer Lewis Horner remains in discussions about a new deal after an injuryravaged 2017/18 campaign.
The midfielder, now in his second stint with Spartans, is one of a number of deals the Blyth boss is looking to complete.
Armstrong is also looking for a defender as he continues to improve his squad.
“Hopefully that deal will get done,” he said of the Horner talks.
“I’m also in the market for a centre-half with talks continuing with one target.”