Blyth Spartans manager Lee Clark has moved to reassure supporters that his summer transfer business is only just getting under way.
The former Newcastle United and Sunderland midfielder has made a number of additions to a squad that has been ravaged by key departures this summer.
Consett’s prolific striker Michael Sweet became seventh new signing of the summer on Friday – 24 hours after former Gateshead defender Tom Devitt moved to Croft Park.
Several members of last season’s squad have already committed for the new campaign, including Spartans legend Robbie Dale and England C defender Ryan Hutchinson.
However, there were two big names to leave the National League club this week as goalkeeper Peter Jameson and long-serving striker Dan Maguire chose to move into the full-time game with York City.
Clark revealed that he is working hard to get the right players through the door and plug the gaps that remain in his squad.
He told the club’s website: “I want to develop young players; I want to develop a squad and give them the opportunity to showcase their talents.
“We have got 10 players signed up, but we have not even scratched the surface of where we need to be to compete.
“It has been hectic. By the time I had taken up my position a few of the players had already left for pastures new.
“There are some who are still here – I wanted to keep as many players as possible because of the success last season, and some of those who were still available have decided to go.
“I understand Dan Maguire’s situation totally; he is going into full-time football to a club with a massive infrastructure and has ambitions of not only getting into the National League but also the Football League.
“There are others who have moved on as well and some are talking about moving on. We have signed four of those who were here which is important.
“I personally didn’t want to have a huge overhaul of players, but it is going to happen, and I am delighted with the players who have been brought in.”
Clark will get his Spartans tenure under way with a home friendly against Scottish League One club Stranraer on Saturday, June 29.
