Cunningham to make case for defence
BLYTH Spartans have solved their central defensive problems on the eve of the new season following the capture of starlet Aaron Cunningham.
The 20-year-old has arrived on a half-season loan from Conference top-flight outfit Hartlepool United.
Blyth expect to be without regular centre-back Ryan Hutchinson for the season while the returning Jordan Watson is not yet match fit.
Watson missed the 2017/18 campaign with a bad knee injury and will take time to get back up to speed.
Manager Alun Armstrong has been on the trail of a centre-half for the full summer, Morpeth Town’s Chris Reid a target.
Unable to make a permanent signing Armstrong has turned to the loanmarket to solve the problem.
Armstrong said: “It has been a long and frustrating search and it has been hard to compete financially with some clubs.
“I am relieved to get Cunningham on board.
“He is only young but has potential, though he will not be able to play in Saturday’s opener at Hereford.”
Cunningham was sent off on his debut off the bench for Hartlepool in the 1-1 draw against relegated Torquay United at The Vic in April.
Armstrong added: “He is suspended for the first two games, which is frustrating, but he will be available for the visit of Chester on Saturday week.”
Cunningham made his Blyth bow in the 3-1 friendly defeat against Gateshead last weekend and is the fifth new face at Croft Park this summer.