Rio Clegg signs for South Shields

We are delighted to announce the signing of Rio Clegg from Radcliffe Boro for an undisclosed fee on a two-year contract with the option to extend for an additional year.

The Salford-born forward joins The Mariners early on in the 26/27 Enterprise National League North season, after a very successful season previously with Radcliffe, scoring 27 goals in the league, just two behind South Shields number nine, Paul Blackett, and also adding four assists.

Clegg arrived at Neuven Stadium from Trafford last May, after a very successful season in the Northern Premier League West Division, where he finished the league’s top goalscorer with 20 goals in 39 games. Clegg has also enjoyed spells with Elton Vale and Prestwich Heys, which saw him build his reputation in front of goal, netting 10 times, while short stints with Stalybridge Celtic and Hyde United also added valuable minutes to his playing CV.

Rio’s impact came straight away, as during pre-season, he scored three goals for Radcliffe, a penalty against Avro, and a brace against his former side, Trafford.

The 24-year-old forward has shown that he knows how to find the back of the net, partnered with a tireless work rate. Clegg adds strong attacking power to the Mariners’ front line very early on in the league campaign.

Clegg added:

“I’m buzzing to be here and to be signing for South Shields, it’s my first time stepping into a full-time environment, and I think this is the perfect Club for me to continue my career”

“I love the football that’s being played here, it suits me really well, and I can’t wait to get started”

“I’d like to say thank you to everyone at Radcliffe, the staff, players, and everyone involved who have helped me during my time at the Club, and I wish you all the best for the rest of the season”