The defender, who was captain of neighbours Jarrow Roofing last season, won't cost the Mariners a penny as he is a free agent.

Pendergood fell out with Roofing boss Richie McLoughlin towards the end of their disastrous season, when he opted to play for his Sunday side instead of the already-relegated Roofers for a midweek fixture.

A parting of the ways was always expected after that, and with Pendergood not signing the retainer form, he was free to look for another club this summer.

The former Cleadon centre-half will come along to pre-season training later this month, along with another potential new signing Chris Morrell.

Former West Auckland and Whickham midfielder Morrell is a left-sided player, and is another without a club at the minute.

Steadman said: "Both players have expressed an interest in coming along training, and neither will cost a fee, which is a bonus.

"Kyle's developed a lot since I first saw him at Cleadon, and he's got a bit of pace about him.

"Morrell's a left-footer, which are quite hard to come by these days. He's been away for a few months, so we'll have a look at him too."

Steadman has already re-signed the entire squad from last season's promotion-winning campaign as he looks to launch an assault on Division One of the Northern League.

Three of his most influential players – club captain and player of the year Lee Paul Scroggins, experienced centre-half Duncan O'Brien, and creative winger Chris Feasey – were the last to put pen to paper, having been assured of the Mariners' ambitions.

And with popular players such as top scorer Mark Johnson, midfielder Simon Fitzpatrick, striker Willie Crew and former Sunderland star Craig Russell also back next season, hopes are high that the club can make a real impact in the top league.

Club secetary Philip Reay added: "It was always our No 1 priority to ensure that we kept the team who played so magnificently all last season for our Division One campaign, and we are delighted that all the players were all so enthusiastic to remain at the club."

Shields are also finalising their pre-season friendly line-up, with confirmation of the ties due by the beginning of next week.