Mariners captain Adams signs new contract

Captain Blair Adams has committed to a sixth season with his hometown club after penning a new contract at 1st Cloud Arena.

The 31-year-old will lead the Mariners into their debut campaign in National League North following last season’s promotion from the Pitching In Northern Premier League.

With 172 appearances and 15 goals to his name as a South Shields player, Adams is now ready for the next challenge, and is relishing it.

He said: “There was no doubt at all that I wanted to stay, especially after the successful season we had in winning promotion.

“Now we’re heading into a historic season for the club with it being the first one at this level, and I just want to get going.

“It feels like a new era for the club and I’m sure the rest of the lads are feeling just as excited as I am.

“I’ve mentioned a lot of times how proud I am to lead this team, and to lift the trophy last season after all the effort that was put in from everyone around the club was a real honour.

“Now I’m buzzing to lead the club out in a new league and with the experience, quality and togetherness we have in the squad, I’m confident we’re going to be very competitive.”

Adams came through the Academy ranks at Sunderland before making his way in the senior game with spells at the likes of Coventry City, Notts County and Hartlepool United.

He signed for the Mariners in the summer of 2018 and this is now comfortably the longest time he has spent at a single club.

The left-back added: “My love of football came back when I signed here.

“I’d had a couple of difficult years before that, but playing for this club and alongside the lads we’ve had here has brought all the love back.

“I’ve absolutely loved the five years I’ve had and it’s an honour to be coming back for the sixth season.”

South Shields manager Julio Arca said: “It’s great to have Blair on board for next season.

“He’s captain of the club and is a player who gives 110% in every game, so he will be invaluable for us.

“He’s a very professional player who is an example for others on and off the pitch and brings a good deal of experience to the squad.”