Exclusive:Mike Williamson makes South Shields FC transfer admission after owners meeting

Mike Williamson has revealed South Shields FC will add to their squad if a suitable player becomes available - but has stressed no new incomings are close as this point in time.

The former Newcastle United defender has already added to his squad following his appointment as successor to Ian Watson and the likes of forward Adam Campbell and midfielder duo Toby Onanaye and Khanya Leshabela have quietly impressed during preparations for the new National League North season.

There are still just over two weeks to go until Williamson’s side kick off their league campaign with a visit to Scarborough Athletic and all focus remains on kicking off the season on a high with a win over the Seadogs.

Whether any further new additions are secured prior to the season opener remains to be seen - but Williamson has confirmed he has held meetings with owners Geoff Thompson and Jason Ye in recent days and will make a move if the right player is available and can improve his squad.

When asked if any new incomings were close, he told The Gazette: “No, that’s the simple answer at the moment. I am really happy with where we are right now. We have picked up injuries with Jordan Marshall and Robbie Tinkler so that’s not ideal and we will have to see where they are at before making any decisions. The standard of players we are working with is where I want it to be - but if someone becomes available we feel will enhance us we will move for them. I had a good meeting with Geoff and Jason and they have a vision so the club is moving in the right direction so we will make sure we keep moving in the right direction.”

Frightening

One high point of the draw with the Sunderland XI was the performance of forward Sonny Finch.

The former Middlesbrough youngster was a high-profile addition to the Mariners squad midway through last season and he will now play a key role during Williamson’s first season in charge. The Mariners boss is relishing the opportunity to help Finch reach his potential - but warned the versatile attacker he will be ‘on him’ to make sure he hits the levels he believes he can on a consistent basis.

He said: “I think Sonny is someone I am going to be on this season because I can see how good he is. Anybody in the ground against Sunderland can see how good he is and see the attributes he has and are above where we are. It’s up to me and him to get him to the level where we feel he can play. He has frightening pace and he’s such a good lad, so hardworking and it hurts when it doesn’t go his way. We are privileged to have him - but I hope he knows I will be on him for good reasons.”

The Mariners are without a friendly fixture this weekend following the postponement of a planned trip to Northern Premier League Premier Division newcomers Redcar Athletic - but they will return to action when they make the short trip to National League club Gateshead on Tuesday night.

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