Spartans’ boss hoping to land defender Laing

BLYTH Spartans are hoping former Motherwell and Inverness Caledonian Thistle defender Louis Laing will join the Croft Park club.

Laing, whose career began at Sunderland, played 42 games for Vanarama National League club Hartlepool United last season.

The 25-year-old has been surplus to requirements this season.

Pools’ manager Matthew Bates said: “I just feel he has lost his way as a player here.

“I have no doubt he will have a career elsewhere and do well.”

Blyth manager Alun Armstrong has tracked the centre-back and is hoping the Newcastle-born player will link up with the Spartans.

Armstrong, whose side take on York City in the FA Cup this weekend, said: “I have spoken with Louis and it would be a great signing if we can pull it off.

“He is a high-calibre player who got into a rut at Hartlepool and it may be a move which suits both parties.

“He has only known professional football and will doubtless want to play higher than National League North.

“He is not cup-tied, so even if he came in on a short-term basis while he considers his options he could be involved against York.

“Jordan Watson had to come off at the weekend and another central defender Aaron Cunningham rolled his ankle, so getting Laing in would be a real bonus.”

The former England youth international gained League One experience on loan at Notts County and Wycombe and it would be a coup if Armstrong can get his man.