Arrival | Toby Lees signs for Blyth Spartans

Photo credit: Charlie Waugh

Blyth Spartans AFC is pleased to announce the signing of central defender Toby Lees.

The 24-year-old started out at Harrogate Town, where he had loan spells at Harrogate Railway, Boston United, Whitby Town and Gateshead.

Lees was then signed permanently by The Heed in March 2020 but departed after the first Covid-19 shutdown with 22 appearances and two goals to his name.

He joined Alfreton Town last summer but returns to the North East to reunite with Michael Nelson, who he worked alongside during his time at the International Stadium.

Lees is Nelson's 17th signing of the summer as his squad prepares to begin pre-season training next week.

On signing for Spartans, Lees said: "I know the way Nelse likes to play having worked with him previously.

"We compliment each other quite well in terms of how he wants to play and how I play.

"I want to play as many games as I can. If I'm doing that, hopefully it means my performances are strong and it's benefitting the team."

Nelson added: "Toby is someone I've worked with previously whilst at Gateshead.

"He is a physical central defender who now has two seasons at this level under his belt, although last season was cut short through Covid.

"He knows the way I work and what I expect of players, so hopefully he will hit the ground running."