Interview | Mitchell delighted with Almond signing

Manager Terry Mitchell is delighted with the signing of on-loan Sunderland defender Patrick Almond.

The 19-year-old signed until the end of the season last Friday, and made his first appearance for the club in a friendly against Seaham Red Star on Tuesday evening.

"He's another quality player, and brings competition for places. The lad's got good pedigree, he's been at Sunderland since 11-years-old so is technically very good.

He's a strong lad, who likes to get on the ball and play from the back, so he should fit in well with how we want to play. He's a very good defender and can only enhance the squad.

Mitchell added, "I'd like to thank Sunderland, in particular Lewis Dickman and Michael Dodds, for allowing the deal to happen."

Almond himself was delighted with the move and looking forward to make the step up to senior football. "I'm happy to be here. Blyth is a big club and one I've heard plenty of with being from the local area, and I can't wait to get started.

I'll be against different types of players, going from smaller and more technical academy players up to those that are more experienced and physical, will be a great challenge.

The manager has been saying it'll be a great experience for me personally, and a great opportunity to learn. He's outlined how he can improve as a player and I'm looking forward to helping the team."