Arrival | Russell earns Spartans deal

Blyth Spartans AFC is pleased to announce the signing of Kurt Russell following a successful trial period.

The 20-year-old winger impressed manager Michael Nelson and supporters to earn himself a contract at Croft Park.

Russell began his career in Newcastle United's academy before moving abroad to join Croatian side NK Novigrad in 2018.

Following one-year away, Russell returned to England and the North East, initially linking up with Northern League Division One side Newcastle Benfield.

Russell has trained and appeared in all of Blyth's pre-season fixtures and already has proved a hit with fans.

His pace and trickery caught the eye in the 2-1 win at Dunston UTS. He also had a decisive impact in the home friendly with Hartlepool United, winning the penalty which Connor Thomson dispatched.

Russell said: "It's been a long trial - about six weeks - but I am buzzing it's all done and sorted now. I just need to get my head down and feel settled.

"It'd say I am tricky and quick - I like to go one v one at players but I need to start bringing more goals into my game."

Nelson added: "He brings a little flair, trickery, pace and a little bit of unpredictability at times.

"He's shown really good glimpses in games but I want to make sure those glimpses are prolonged so he's a threat for 90 minutes. "