Spartans Sign Phil Bannister

Blyth Spartans can announce the signing of forward Phil Bannister subject to international clearance.

The 22-year-old, who is from Wallsend, started his career at the Monkseaton Academy, this enabled the forward the opportunity to move to America on a Scholarship at the Loyola University in Maryland and a hugely successful time in the Maryland, scoring 10 times in 9 games last season before injury curtailed his season, saw him come to the attention of MLS side the Colorado Rapids when he was chosen to play for them in the 'Supplemental Draft' in January this year.

Manager Steve Cuggy commented "We know all about Phil, we were interested in getting him to Whitley Bay before he headed out to the States and were keen on getting him to Croft Park as soon as we knew he was back in the UK."

"He's a talented player and should hopefully do well for us in both scoring goals and creating them."

Welcome to the club Phil!