Squad update as Newton extends stay and Bodenham departs on loan

Conor Newton has signed an extension to the short-term deal he signed in the summer, committing himself to South Shields for the remainder of the season.

Newton has had a superb impact since penning a contract which lasted until January on the eve of the campaign.

A new deal has now been agreed which will see the player remain with the Mariners throughout 2022-23.

Shields manager Kevin Phillips said: “Conor has been fantastic.

“Everyone can see what a whole-hearted professional he is, alongside the excellent qualities and adaptability he brings.

“The lads love him and we’re delighted to have him for a longer period now.”

Defender Jack Bodenham, meanwhile, has joined Blyth Spartans on a one-month loan deal.

On the temporary move for Bodenham, Phillips said: “It was a joint decision.

“I spoke to Jack and all the players in pre-season about my plans to mould the squad, and made it very clear to all of them that no one was guaranteed a starting place every week.

“Jack started the first three games of the season at a time we had a number of injuries, and has unfortunately found himself out of the team recently.

“He wants to play regular football, which is an attitude I love, but we’re unable to offer him that at the moment and I won’t stand in anyone’s way who wants to go out and get minutes.

“It’s a move which will benefit all parties and if we need to bring him back, we can.”

Shields have been boosted by the return to fitness of centre-back Tom Broadbent, who is awaiting his debut for the club.

Phillips added: “We’ve got great competition in the squad, and that’s key when you’re trying to win promotion.

“You hope that players want to fight for their place, but sometimes there are circumstances where players need to go out on loan, as we’ve seen with Jack, Will Jenkins and Ntumba Massanka.

“All three of them needed to go out and play football and we’re delighted that has happened.”