Newcastle United icon Nobby Solano appointed as Blyth Spartans manager

Blyth Spartans have officially announced former Newcastle United midfielder Nolberto Solano as their new first team manager.

Signed on an initial 12-month contract, Solano will oversee Blyth Spartans’ return to the Northern Premier League after relegation from the National League North on the final day of the campaign preceded the departure of Jon Shaw earlier this week.

The appointment will be the first since the takeover completed by Winners Worldwide, seeing Solano’s ex-teammate Steve Howard appointed as Director of Football by new chairman Irfan Liaquat.

The Peruvian international, who has recently returned to England following spell managing both in his native country and Sweden, said: “One of the reasons I accepted is the way my ex-teammate, Steve Howard showed me the ambition of the club. We need to work hard. Work together. And get back up into the National League North.”

His praises have been highly sung by those involved in the board of the club, as they hope Solano is the appointment that can return them to life at step two.

“A highly talented individual with the perfect blend of skills, expertise, and plenty of flair,” were the words of Liaquat. “His exceptional talent, coupled with his extensive network, positions him to achieve great success as we start our rebuild.”

“I am absolutely delighted my ex-teammate has decided to join Blyth Spartans as first team manager,” added Howard. “His wealth of experience and coaching skills will be invaluable. I’m looking forward to working closely with Nobby to create a team that will get back to the level they should be.”

Information regarding Solano’s backroom staff is expected to follow in due course, with nothing yet to be confirmed.