The timing was right for Rhys Evans after the defender confirmed a switch to Morpeth Town, ending a lengthy association with a fellow Northumberland side.
Evans, a full-back that is comfortable playing as a wing-back in a defensive five, joins the Highwaymen following a five-year spell at Blyth Spartans, who suffered relegation last time out.
The defender, who has also featured for St Johnstone, Queen of the South and Newcastle Benfield, is delighted to confirm the move and excited for what’s to come.
“There’s an ambition in the football club, it wants to go somewhere,” said the right-sided 27-year-old.
“It’s noticeable how much this ground has changed since I last played here. There are a few lads signed that I know and I know a few of the lads already here. I think it is somewhere I can settle in quick, it’s not too far from home, and I can’t wait to get started.
“It’s the right time to leave Blyth and start the next chapter. I never saw myself leaving but for various reasons this just seemed right. I’ve known Lynchy (Morpeth boss Craig Lynch) for a long time now and have a good relationship – as soon as I spoke with him, it was exciting and it just feels right.
“There’s always going to be comings and goings in football. All my years at Blyth there have been a lot of changes whereas at Morpeth there isn’t that many.
“It lends to being a settled squad and you want to be part of that, one that has been together for a while and has that team spirit.
“Morpeth ended last season really well and you want to carry that momentum into the new season.”
Lynch was pleased to secure the signature of Evans, who adds experience, depth, and further quality to a defensive line that conceded more than he would have liked last season.
“Rhys is someone I’ve known on a personal level for many years now and eventually having the chance to sign him is something I couldn’t turn down,” he said.
“I know his mentality and character will only push the group on. He’s amassed 150 games in the league above which shows his quality and experience.
“He’s an attacking full-back who will join in the play. Last season we had a few injuries in defence and also conceded a lot of goals.
“We struggled, so this season it was important to add competition to places and players who come in with quality. Luckily, we’ve been able to do that.”
