Hebburn Town boss reveals why he wanted to add these two new signings to squad

Blyth Spartans goalkeeper Mark Foden and Morpeth Town midfielder Michael McKeown have both moved to the Energy Check Sports Ground in the aftermath of Saturday’s 4-2 home defeat against Billingham Town.

That result marked the Hornets third consecutive defeat and left them in third place in table – three points behind current leaders Stockton Town.

The run of form has prompted Hornets manager Kevin Bolam to rejig his squad and Foden and McKeown could be joined by at least one more new addition before the end of the week with two deals currently being discussed.

The addition of McKeown will be seen as key for the Hornets as the former FA Vase winner brings some much-needed experience to Bolam’s midfield options.

The former West Auckland Town player was in the North Shields side that lifted the Vase with a 2-1 win against Glossop North End in 2015 and Bolam believes he can help the Hornets in their quest to progress up the non-league pyramid.

When discussing his new signings, Bolam told The Gazette: “Michael McKeown is ideal for what we are looking for at our club.

“It was key to not just rush signings and we see Michael as a long-term signing.

“He is someone that can be key in the push for promotion, he has been there and done it, he’s won the Vase and won other cups too.

“He will be able to dictate a game for us and he is somebody that will understand what we want in and out of possession.

On Foden, he said: “I saw Mark in pre-season and, although his handling could have been better, he made two saves that were unbelievable.

“When you have ability like that, you need to get game-time on a regular basis to make the most of it.

“He is young for a goalkeeper and we can give him a platform to build on here.”

Bolam also confirmed that current number one Andrew Jennison has been made available for transfer.

The Hornets boss explained the reasons behind the decision and praised the keeper for his attitude.

He said “I spoke to Andy at length and his attitude was top class.

“I have to take responsibility because we haven’t provided Andy with any competition because Conor Grant is out with a long-term injury.

“Andy agreed that he has not been at his best recently, but he isn’t the only one.

“We wish him all of the best for the future.”