Get to know our new recruits

The season is less than two weeks away, with newly-promoted Morpeth Town the first side set to visit the Winner Recruitment Stadium on August 17. 

Four new recruits have already agreed to join ahead of the new season; Alex Byrne, Louis Barnes, Steve Jennings and Scott Sephton. Here’s a closer look at each of those signings and what can be expected from our Summer recruits.

Alex Byrne

Age: 25
Position: Winger
Signed from: Gainsborough Trinity

A versatile operator across the front line, Byrne became the first summer signing after joining from BetVictor Premier Division rivals Gainsborough. Prior to his time at the Northolme, Byrne spent two years at Shaw Lane and was also a part of Jamie Vardy’s V9 Academy, following in the footsteps of Yellows winger Dylan Vassallo and former striker Jamie McDonald. He is an intricate player with pace to burn and is sure to have an immediate impact when he makes his league debut later this month.

Louis Barnes

Age: 27
Position: Left Back
Signed from: Nantwich Town

Barnes arrives at the Yellows following the departure of both Alex Whittle and Adam Hughes. He spent 10 years at Stockport County at the beginning his career and has previously had trials at Manchester United, Queens Park Rangers and Hull City. Following spells at Southport, Chorley, Marine, Northwich Victoria and Vauxhall Motors, among others, the 28-year-old took a two-year break from football before linking up with Colwyn Bay in 2017. He subsequently joined Nantwich ahead of the new campaign and went on to make 28 appearances for the Dabbers. Barnes is an excellent reader of the game and has a keen eye for a pass.

Scott Sephton

Age: 28
Position: Central Midfielder
Signed from: Buxton FC

Sephton agreed to join the club after spending the majority of last season at Buxton. He was a pivotal figure in the Bucks midfield as they made it all the way to the play-offs before suffering defeat to South Shields at the semi-final stage. The 28-year-old, who lives in Warrington, began last season in the National League North with Ashton United, making three appearances. Following Robbie Evans’ exit, Sephton will certainly add more competition to the central midfield area.

Steve Jennings

Age: 34
Position: Central Midfielder
Signed from: Barrow

The vastly experienced Jennings arrives at the Winner Recruitment Stadium for a second spell, having spent time on loan at the club in 2017/18. The Liverpool-born midfielder spent last season at Conference side Barrow, making 14 league appearances. Listing the likes of Tranmere Rovers, Motherwell and Coventry City on his CV, Jennings will provide immense experience and could be the perfect role model for fellow midfielder Ben Garrity as the club seek to go one step further in 2019/20.