Parker already excited by pre-season return

Blyth Spartans defender Danny Parker is winding down after a busy season but revealed he has already turned his attentions to the return to pre-season training.

The former Bishop Auckland and Motherwell centre back also praised the impact of assistant manager Lee Picton as he prepares to undertake his first pre-season with the club since he came in as Tom Wade's number two in February.

"I'm eager to begin pre-season already as I'm desperate to build on what we'd achieved last season. Personally, I'm aiming to improve so much more as a player, especially with Lee Picton introducing video analysis, his tactical awareness, and ability to motivate I'm confident he can improve on the talent at the club"

With Salford City, Colwyn Bay and Darlington amongst the new additions to the Evo-Stik NPL's top flight there is sure to be an almighty scrap for the two promotion places and Parker admitted he was "really aiming for promotion".

"I'm very excited, mostly due to the new additions to the league. I think we're all very hungry to get started on achieving more than last season.

Ultimately, I'm really aiming for promotion. Which with a team of our attitude and ability deserves"

After a promising debut campaign at Croft Park last season was something of a frustrating one for Parker. Seen as a key part of the Spartans back four he suffered a nasty facial injury in the second home game of the season against Whitby Town.

A clash with former Spartans striker Craig Farrell left Parker with a number of injuries to his face and that gave Ryan Hutchinson a chance to establish himself alongside Nathan Buddle in the heart of the defence.

Buddle's departure to Carlisle United allowed Parker back in and he stayed in the side until the end of the season but couldn't help but reflect on a frustrating year.

"On a personal level, the first half of the season was a bit of a heart break because of my injury and especially due to the lads filling in established themselves so well, but when regarding the team it's impossible for me to be selfish about anything because they were all absolutely incredible. It was very frustrating, especially as I'd worked so hard in preseason!.

Considering the amount of games the club had last season; making the 3rd round of the FA Cup; just missing out on a play off position and winning some silverware, I think it was a fantastic season as a whole"

Parker did take the time to pay tribute to a number of people at Croft Park for helping him through such a tough period.

"During the recovery period the fans and staff were brilliant to me. They were always asking about my recovery, they made me feel as though I was still very much thought of although the lads who were playing were doing so well, the club shop got me involved in their projects.

And looking back now it finally gave me the opportunity to see the club from a different angle and it was humbling to see what goes on behind the scenes! It all kept me going"