Spartans Sign Shaun Vipond

Blyth Spartans are delighted to announce the signing of hard working, industrious central midfielder Shaun Vipond from Blue Square Bet North rivals Workington.

The 22-year-old started his career at Carlisle United, where he made 4 appearances. His form and reputation at Brunton Park was such that he was reported to be the target of a £100,000 bid from Leeds United. In 2008, he enjoyed a loan spell at Workington and following his release signed at Borough Park on a permanent basis.

In 2009 he moved to Swedish side Ostersund FK, but a dislocated shoulder meant that he only made 3 appearances before heading back to Cumbria, where he has played ever since, captaining the cumbrians on several times last season.

A friend of new signing Graeme Armstrong, it is hoped that the Hexham-based midfielder will go some way to replace the departures from the Spartans midfield over the summer, with Manager Steve Cuggy looking to revamp the engine room of the team, with the arrivals of Wayne Phillips and Chris Emms and the retention of Neal Hooks, as well as other additions that the management team are looking to make in this area.

Steve Cuggy was clearly pleased with the day's business "We see Shaun as key to our plans, he's experienced in the league and will bring mobility and legs to our midfield. I'm really pleased that he's joined us."

The midfielder was also really happy to have join the club "I'm delighted, I was really keen to come to the club, but once I had spoken to Cuggs and he explained his ambitions for the club, I was really impressed and even more keen to join. I'm about to head off on holidays, so it is good to get things sorted and I can't wait to get started".

Welcome to the club Shaun!

Vipond holds off former Spartan Jamie Poole