Former academy player may be ‘hidden gem’ for Red Star

FORMER Newcastle United academy forward Joe Kerridge has joined Ebac Northern League Division One club Seaham Red Star.

Kerridge featured in United junior sides alongside the likes of Callum Roberts, Dan Barlaser and Freddie Woodman before he was released by the Magpies in March 2015.

He went on to play for the likes of Easington Colliery, North Shields and Heaton Stannington in the Northern League and steps back into Division One after joining Red Star from the latter.

Red Star manager Mark Collingwood believes Kerridge has the possibility to become a “hidden gem” after making him his fourth new signing of the summer.

He said: “Every time I see Joe in front of goal, he just does not miss the target.

“He is quick, a good finisher, and if he is as hungry as he says we could have a hidden gem on our hands.

“We will give him a platform and it usdown to him to do it for us now.

“He is happy in life, he is in a good place and we hope he can become a success with us.”

Kerridge’s former club have also been busy over the last 48 hours as new manager Dean Nicholson settles into life at Heaton Stannington.

Former FA Vase-winning winger Dean Holmes and Bedlington Terriers striker Leighton Hopper became Nicholson’s first new signings following his appointment last week.

He has also added to his backroom staff with Scott Flynn and Tom Flynn.