Club Statement | Trio leave Blyth Spartans

Blyth Spartans can confirm Dale Pearson, Craig Spooner and Jack Butler have left the club by mutual consent.

Pearson and Spooner joined from Newcastle Benfield and North Shields, respectively, in the summer and made five National League North appearances between them.

Butler, who graduated into the first-team from the reserves, featured eight times for Spartans and spent the majority of last season loan at Ashington.

The former England Schoolboys forward has decided to further his education by going to University.

Blyth manager Lee Clark said: "I have to make some quick decisions in terms of the squad. I can't let it drift.

"I've increasingly realised that I need to trim the squad and bring in some experienced players who know our level and do it within budget."

Alongside Pearson, Robbie Dale was absent from Saturday's matchday squad. Clark says he picks the squad based on "what he thinks is right".

He added: "I pick the team and the bench on what I see on the pitch and in training. I have no other criteria.

"I look for players who want to play and then be good enough when they do make the team. In terms of player choice, I simply do what I think is right."

We would like to wish Dale, Craig and Jack all the very best for the future and thank them for their efforts.