Hebburn Town manager Kevin Bolam believes former Newcastle United midfielder Lee Clark will be a success during his time at Blyth Spartans.
The former Magpies star was named as successor to former Spartans boss Alun Armstrong just over a month ago and has faced several challenges during his short time in charge at Croft Park.
Clark is currently putting together a new-look Spartans squad after several key players departed the club during the summer.
A number of trialists including former Magpies youngster Craig Spooner played a part in Spartans' 2-1 win over Hebburn on Saturday as they made it three wins out of three pre-season fixtures thanks to Tom Devitt’s late headed winner.
Hornets boss Bolam believes that Clark will get it right at Croft Park – despite watching his own side go close to claiming a notable draw in their opening pre-season fixture.
Bolam said: “To be fair, Spartans were two games ahead of us in terms of pre-season and we have more than matched them.
“I think Lee will know they’ve been in a game and we tested them.
“We probably need to be a little bit better in terms of out of possession, but I can’t fault the lads.
“As a start point to our preparations for the season, it was a real positive and we can take heart from the fact we deserved at least a draw against a very good side.
“I am sure Lee will do a good job at Spartans and they have some top players.
“He’s been there and done it and his attention to detail was obvious during spells of the game.
“But we have given them a game, we have tested them, and we have given ourselves a good foundation to work from throughout the rest of pre-season.”
Next up for Hebburn is a friendly against their own reserve side at the Energy Check Sports Ground on tonight.
A Sunderland XI will visit South Tyneside on Friday night for a 7.30pm kick-off. Tickets are priced at £5 adults, £3 concessions and under-16s go free.
