Morpeth Town is delighted to announce the signing of centre-back Nathan Buddle.
The defender has forged a successful career in non-league football, primarily with Blyth Spartans, but has also featured for Carlisle United in league football, before further spells at Gateshead, Spennymoor, and, most recently, Ashington.
An imposing presence at the heart of any defence, 30-year-old Buddle will further strengthen our defensive line with his experience and obvious talent.
Explaining his decision to switch to Craik Park over the summer, Buddle pointed to the ambition displayed by manager Craig Lynch as a big deciding factor.
After holding discussions with us four or five times during his career, Buddle will wear the amber and black for the new Pitching In NPL Premier Division season.
“Just for one reason or another it didn’t materialise but, finally, I’m here and really looking forward to it,” said Buddle after his deal was announced.
“The direction the club wants to be going is exactly the main reason for coming here. I know what Lynchy expects because of the discussions we’ve had, the players he has here and who he is trying to get in.
“There’s only one direction the club is going to go. I’m not here to coast through the season, I want to be part of something and achieve something.”
Buddle has been a mainstay in north east non-league circles during his career. Some will be surprised he’s only 30-year-old, a fact he laughed about.
“My first full season at Blyth, I’d just turned 18. From that point, I’ve never not been in football. There’s plenty of life left in me yet!” he continued.
“On the pitch, I know how much I’ve changed from the experiences in football. I was quite hot headed when I was younger and played on emotion.
“Now I’ve got game experience and each season that has been added to. I feel that will be a big factor here.
“I am only 30 years old but I feel like I’ve been around this game a long time now at a bit higher level and I can bring that here.
“I’m hoping to be as big an influence as I can. I’m quite vocal and more than happy to try to encourage and help players as well.”
Morpeth boss Lynch was pleased to secure the signature of a player he knows from his Hartlepool United days.
“Nathan is someone I’ve known for many years,” he said.
“He has a wealth of experience in non-league and someone I was keen to get to the club. He has shown through the years his quality at both Blyth and Spennymoor and I’m sure he will have a big part to play for us.
“The deal at this stage in his career made sense for both parties and I’m sure he can be a Morpeth player for many years to come.”
