When football is in the blood, in your heritage, with relatives playing at the highest level of English football, the answer from James Armstrong as to where he learned his love of the game is surprising.

“Probably just playing on the streets with my mates!”

Armstrong has joined Morpeth Town’s coaching staff after manager Craig Lynch put the call out for reinforcements.

Getting by since taking over the top job at Craik Park, ably assisted by Dale Walker – in a dual role alongside his goalkeeping coach duties – and Steven Shaw – who has his role as sports therapist and the Academy side of things to consider – there was need for another body, a new voice, and a different angle on all things first team.

Armstrong was given the role, and it is not surprising that he is part of football coaching with a family like his.

“Both dad (Gordon Armstrong) and my uncle played professional football – my dad played over 400 games for Sunderland,” said Armstrong, who stated his ambitions clearly as wanting to progress as a coach and reach the highest level possible.

“My uncle Chris played in the Premier League for Sheffield United and in the Championship for Reading.”

Armstrong has been a player coach at Sunderland RCA after playing for a number of teams including Sunderland, Hull City, Spennymoor, Pickering, Sunderland RCA, and Sunderland West End.

With experience in league and non-league, Armstrong is a good judge of a side and is keen to get to work with the Highwaymen and help move us on to the next level.

Currently sitting third in the Pitching In NPL Premier Division – their highest ever league position – it is an exciting time to be part of the club.

“I know it’s a fantastic club with great ambition,” continued Armstrong.

“After speaking with the manager I knew I wanted to join. They have targets in mind and I know I’d like help the club finish as high as we can in the league and see where that takes us and to win the Northumberland Senior Cup.”

Town boss Lynch was pleased to get Armstrong on board.

“I’m delighted that James has come aboard the management team,” he added.

“I’ve known James for 15 years through playing together. When I spoke to James at the start of the month, and I knew he wanted to come in, I was delighted to complete the deal.

“James has a similar background in playing and coaching to myself, as well as being a good mate. It’s been a tough year looking for the right person to come in and I’m very fortunate James has decided to take this step.”