Armstrong to stay as boss of Spartans
BLYTH Spartans have secured the services of manager Alun Armstrong for another two years, writes JEFF BOWRON.
Armstrong finally signed a new deal after ironing out one or two off-the-field issues with chairman Tony Platten.
The former Ipswich and Middlesbrough striker has retained the vast majority of his squad for next season.
Experienced midfield man David McTiernan and central defender Joe Gorman are the only two players released.
Platten said: “Alun has done exceptional work at the club since he replaced Tom Wade so I am delighted to tie him down to a new deal.
“He has decided what we can offer him fits his lifestyle and I am delighted we have been able to come to that agreement.”
A one-year option is part of Armstrong’s new package, the 43-year-old delighted to have his future sorted out.
Armstrong said: “We got there in the end.
“It is still a work in progress at Blyth but we are going in the right direction.
“We are looking to move forward but it will not happen overnight and we are looking to attract outside investment.
“The chairman cannot keep funding the club like he does.
“We need extra financial help for us to achieve our aims.
“In its current form going up to the National League would break the club financially, so we need extra investement.
“It is already difficult to compete financially for players with the likes of Spennymoor, Darlington and South Shields.”
Armstrong hopes to add four players to his squad for the 2018/19 campaign and is keeping tabs on Gateshead schemer Kieran Green.