Darlington have today signed defender Michael Liddle from Blyth Spartans.

Michael, 29, started his career at Sunderland, for whom he made his debut in the FA Cup in January 2010.

He had loan spells at Carlisle, Leyton Orient, Gateshead and Accrington Stanley, before he moved permanently to Accrington Stanley in 2012. He played there for three seasons , making 66 appearances.

He returned to the north east and joined Northern League side Dunston UTS,  before moving on to Blyth in June 2016.  He has been one of Blyth’s top performers in the last three seasons at left back, making 111 appearances and scoring three times.

Manager Alun Armstrong said; "Michael is one of the best left backs in the league, and is capable of playing a lot higher. He has high energy levels, is good in the air, and looks after the ball. He has plenty of enthusiasm, and is very good at getting up and down."

He also has five caps for the Republic of Ireland Under 21 side.

We would like to welcome Michael to the club, and wish him all the best while he’s with us.