New signing ready for battle

CONNOR Oliver is ready to battle for a place at Morpeth Town after agreeing to join the Northern Premier League club, writes MARK CARRUTHERS.

The former Sunderland and Blackpool midfielder completed a deal to move to Craik Park on Tuesday after spending last season with Gateshead.

Oliver was released by the Heed when his contract came to an end in June and quickly attracted the interest of clubs around the non-league scene.

However, it was Morpeth that managed to secure his services and the 26-year-old will now compete with the likes of Liam Noble, Sam Hodgson and Ben Sayer for a place in Stephen Turnbull’s starting lineup.

After putting pen to paper, he told the club’s official website: “I’ve been to a few games this season, out of chance as I live in the area. I have been waiting a while to get signed up, but the day has come so I’m delighted.

“I’ll bring experience in non-league, and experience of games at a decent level, and hopefully bring a lot on the ball to get the team moving forward.

“When you play at a competitive level, no one expects to be the first name on the team sheet. You’ve got to fight for your place – it’s as simple as that.”

When asked of his aims for the new season, Oliver said: “To try and push the team on, to try and play every game I can and to stay fit.

“The main goal is a team one – to try and get promoted.

“The club, in general, is trying to go places, they want to get promoted.

“You just take one game at a time and go from there.”