New signing Toby Lees reveals the main factor behind his decision to join Blyth Spartans

Central defender Lees reunites with Nelson having worked and played alongside the former Hartlepool United favourite at National League North rivals Gateshead.

The 24-year-old played 22 times for The Heed and scored two goals during the 2019/20 season before completing a move to Alfreton Town last summer.

Lees began his senior career at Harrogate Town, where he enjoyed loan spells at Harrogate Railway, Boston United and Whitby Town.

Lees said: “He (Michael Nelson) was a big factor in my decision to join Blyth.

“I’ve been speaking to Nelse quite often. We’ve always kept in contact after we worked together at Gateshead.

“I know what he is about, what he wants and what he expects.

“I’ve been really impressed with the players that have been recruited - the squad has been put together extremely well this year.

“We’re looking to compete as high up the table as possible, so joining Blyth is a really positive move for me and one I’m really excited about.”

He added: “I know the way Nelse likes to play having worked with him previously.

“We compliment each other quite well in terms of how he wants to play and how I play.

“First and foremost, I’m there to defend and stop goals going in but as a defender now, it’s becoming a lot more important to be good on the ball and I believe that is a strong asset to my game.”