Newcastle legend Solano appointed Blyth Spartans boss

Nolberto Solano has been appointed as the new manager of Blyth Spartans.

The former Newcastle United midfielder replaces Jon Shaw, who was sacked earlier this week following their relegation from National League North.

Since finishing his playing career at Hartlepool in 2012, Solano has managed three clubs in his native Peru as well as having a brief spell in Canada and most recently taking charge at Swedish side Eskilstuna.

He was also assistant to Peru national team manager Ricardo Gareca from 2015 to 2022, helping guide them to their first World Cup for 34 years in 2018.

Solano was a popular figure in his playing days at St James' Park, where he scored 38 goals in 233 appearances in all competitions.

Blyth have appointed Solano on a 12-month contract and the club's sporting director Steve Howard, who was at Hartlepool with the 49-year-old, said: "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, and ultimately bring success to the club for years to come.”

Solano, whose team will play in the Northern Premier League next season, said: "One of the reasons I accepted is the way my ex-teammate Steve Howard showed me the ambition of the club which is something I love.

"It will be a great opportunity to work with the local lads. I know Blyth very well.

"It’s a very popular team in the North East. I’m very excited. With these wonderful players and the new owner, we need to to work hard, work together and get back up into National League North."