Harmison’s happy to be going home
BEN Harmison has described himself as “over the moon” after completing a return to former club Ashington.
The powerful striker has had spells with South Shields, Morpeth Town and Blyth Spartans over the last two seasons – but confirmed he will spend the new season with the Colliers after agreeing a deal at Woodhorn Lane.
Harmison - who has also played cricket for Durham- plundered his way to 17 goals for Ashington during the 2016/17 season and carried that form into the following campaign before securing a move to North Shields.
He ventured up the non-league pyramid after leaving the Robins and took enquiries from a number of clubs when his release from Blyth Spartans was confirmed last month.
However, he admitted he is relishing the challenge of helping the Colliers move on after a “tough few years”.
He said: “I am over the moon and cannot wait to get started.
“I had enquiries and offers from higher league clubs but I wanted to come back to Ashington where I was happy.
“I enjoyed my time playing for three or four years at a higher level but I did not want the extra travel which is involved and fancied the challenge of helping Ashington.
“They have had a tough few years and I am hoping I can play my part as they look to push forward.” Colliers’ manager Ian Skinner has hailed the return of the striker and revealed how impressed he was by his desire to represent the Northumberland club again next season.
He said: “Having spoken to him I was delighted he had a desire to return to his hometown club. “I very much look forward to working with Ben again.
“It is important we as a team ensure we provide him with the service which will allow him to score a number of goals in the coming season.
“There are many Northern League teams who would have touted for his signature but Ben had no hesitation in wanting to join us and I’m delighted.”
I had enquiries and offers from higher clubs but I wanted to come back to Ashington where I was happy
Ben Harmison