Ex-Fulham goalkeeper appointed Blyth Spartans boss

Stockdale replaces Nobby Solano, who was relieved of his duties last month following a difficult start to the Northern Premier League season.

Stockdale, who was appointed as Solano's assistant over the summer, took interim charge following the departure and helped Blyth reach the second qualifying round of the FA Cup, as well as registering their first league win of the season at home to Workington.

He previously enjoyed a playing career which spanned more than two decades and saw him play in the Premier League down to the Northern Premier League's top division, representing the likes of Fulham, Brighton and Hove Albion, Birmingham City, Wycombe Wanderers, York City and many more.

The former shot-stopper, who made 39 Premier League appearances, took his first non-playing role at York as their head of recruitment.

He combined that position with a place in their first team squad but was released in April 2024.

His first permanent game in charge of Spartans will come against NWCFL heavyweights Bury in the FA Cup on Saturday.

On his appointment, Stockdale said: “I’m absolutely delighted. A lot of hard work has gone into this for the last 10 to 14 days.

“It could be the old rollercoaster cliché, but things are starting to develop and I’m really happy with where the lads are starting off.

"I’ve just said to them tonight that this is the start, as we want the feeling from Workington every week.”

Stockdale's next league game will come next Wednesday away at Stockton Town, who currently occupy a top-half position in the Northern Premier League table.

Photo credit: Blyth Spartans