Conor’s kept on

Conor Grant will remain with Blyth Spartans next season - after re-signing for the club this evening.

The goalkeeper arrived from Gretna last summer and went on to make 40 appearances for Spartans last season.

And the 23-year-old revealed that he was happy to remain at Blyth for another 12 months.

Grant said: "I'm delighted to stay here. It was never really an issue. As long as the club wanted me, I was happy to stay.

"I enjoyed last year and I never thought of leaving. Now I just want to crack on this season."

Grant's performances led to him being named the Port of Blyth Player of the Year for 2012/13 and he's hoping that he can continue his fine form again this season.

He said: "I want to re-establish my place (as number one), consolidate it and play as many games as I can.

"It'd be nice to get a full season with no injuries, no replacements or rotations and play every game."

Manager Tom Wade is also glad to have Grant back on the books again for next season.

Wade said: "I'm very happy he's re-signed. Conor's a good keeper.

"He had a good season last season and he developed from a young lad into a good keeper during the season.

"He's the most experienced keeper here, but he's still a young lad. He's looking strong in training though, so he now needs to kick on again this season."

However, it isn't all smiles for the stopper - as he is still coming to terms with the departure of Goalkeeping Coach Carl King earlier this week.

Grant said: "I'm gutted he's gone to be honest, but I've got to move on. It's part and parcel of football.

"People come and go. I'm employed by Blyth Spartans and it's their decision.

"I'll miss 'Kingy' massively, but there's not much I can do. You just have to get on with it."