Blyth Spartans re-sign popular goalkeeper Callum Dobson on permanent deal

Blyth Spartans have confirmed that goalkeeper Callum Dobson has returned to the club on a permanent basis.

The stopper spent last season on loan at Croft Park from Hebburn Town, and quickly established himself as a fan favourite with a series of impressive displays between the sticks. Indeed, the 23-year-old shone to such an extent that he scooped the Supporters’ Player of the Season accolade at Spartans’ end of campaign awards.

As such, club chiefs have seen fit to bring him back to Northumberland, and speaking upon his return to Croft Park, Dobson said: “I am buzzing to be back, this time permanently, and I am really looking forward to Monday’s game [against Morpeth Town].

“Football can change quickly and this has come out of the blue, but I am glad the opportunity has come up and I have got a second chance to come back to a team I loved playing for last season. I can’t wait to be back at Croft Park, hopefully in front of a massive crowd, where we can really kick-start the league season.”

Reflecting on the decision to swoop for Dobson once more, goalkeeping coach Phil Hogg said: “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to bring Callum in on a permanent basis. He knows the club, the environment and the demands of playing for Blyth Spartans, having spent last season with us on loan.

“He quickly became a popular figure with the supporters and winning the Supporters’ Player of the Year award was a reflection of the impression he made both on and off the pitch. Callum made a really positive impression during his time here and has continued to develop, so securing him permanently is another important step for us.

“We’ve got a strong goalkeeper group and I’m really pleased with the options we have available to us. Competition for places is important, and having quality and depth in that position can only benefit the team as a whole. Callum is someone we believe has a lot of potential, and I’m looking forward to working with him again and seeing him continue to develop with us.”