Permanent deal for Middlesbrough forward a sign of South Shields ambition says boss

South Shields manager Ian Watson believes the Mariners have proven their ambition by completing the permanent signing of Middlesbrough youngster Sonny Finch.

The 20-year-old forward joined the National League North title challengers on loan in January and has made a spectacular impact during his temporary stint at the 1st Cloud Arena. After marking his first two starts with goals in a home win against Southport and a dramatic draw at Marine, Finch went on to score six goals and provide eight assists in 13 games as Watson’s side continued to push for promotion into the National League.

Although it seemed likely a permanent deal could be struck at the end of the campaign, the willingness of the player and both clubs to bring that agreement forward ensured Finch officially became a permanent member of Watson’s squad last week. Finch penned a two-and-a-half year contract with the Mariners on Thursday and helped his side to a 3-0 home win against Alfreton Town on Saturday that ensured they remain just a point behind current league leaders AFC Fylde.

Watson believes the culture that has been created within his squad has helped persuade Finch his long-term future belongs with the club and described the youngster as ‘an amazing player and an even better person’.

Speaking after the win against Alfreton, the Mariners boss said: “It was an amazing day for the football club bringing Sonny in on a permanent deal. Since he’s come in, he’s been outstanding and it’s a credit to the culture that the boys have created that he was really committed to coming here. He was really keen to get something sorted and be here longer-term so as a club, Geoff has done everything we possibly can to make sure we were able to get the deal over the line and we are really thankful for that.

“It shows the intent of the football club and where we want to take the football club. How ambitious we are, which is why we are here, when we spoke in the summer we came because the football club was really ambitious and then it’s backed up with signing players like Sonny, who is an amazing player and an even better person. He loves the boys, the boys love him, and he’s a pleasure to work with every day. He’s an amazing coup for the football club for sure.”

What has Sonny Finch said about his move to South Shields?

After putting pen-to-paper on a permanent deal, Finch told the Mariners website: “I’m absolutely delighted to get this done. I’ve really enjoyed my time here over the last few months, so making it permanent was an easy decision for me. From the moment I arrived, I felt at home. The lads, the staff and the fans have all been brilliant with me, and that made me want to stay.

“It’s a great club with real ambition, and I’m excited to be part of what we’re building here. I feel like I’ve developed a lot already during my time here, and I know there’s still more to come from me. I just want to keep working hard, contributing to the team, and hopefully we can achieve something special together. I can’t wait to get back out there and continue where we left off.”