Newcastle United legend Nobby Solano takes Blyth Spartans job
Newcastle United legend Nobby Solano has agreed to take on the vacant managerial position at Blyth Spartans.
The deal was confirmed this morning after discussions between Blyth officials and Solano have. The Croft Park club were relegated from Vanarama National League North earlier this month after a rotten run of results in the final run-in.
Solano's task will be to get Blyth promoted from The Pitching In Northern Premier League and back to English football's sixth tier. Spartans, who have a rich tradition in non-league circles, parted company with ex-Gateshead striker Jon Shaw recently.
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Solano is back in the UK after stints with the Peru national team, where he coached at the 2018 World Cup and various Copa America tournaments, and a stint in Sweden last season with Eskilstuna.
“It’s a wonderful challenge," Solano said. "I’m really pleased. One of the reasons I accepted is the way my ex-teammate, Steve Howard showed me the ambition of the club which is some I love.
"It will be a great opportunity to work with the local lads. I know Blyth very well. It’s a very popular team in the North East. I’m very excited, with these wonderful players and the new owner, we need to to work hard, work together and get back up into National League North”.
Spartans' sporting director Howard added: “I am absolutely delighted my ex-teammate has decided to join Blyth Spartans as first team manager. His wealth of experience and coaching skills will be invaluable.
"I'm looking forward to working closely with Nobby to create a team that will get back to the level they should be, and ultimately bring success to the club for years to come.”