Mike Williamson makes South Shields transfer claim after signing former Newcastle United midfielder
South Shields FC transfers: Mike Williamson assesses his squad after signing former Newcastle United youngster Lucas De Bolle last week - full story in Saturday’s Shields Gazette.
Mike Williamson insists South Shields FC need to improve ‘a lot in certain areas’ and hasn’t ruled out further additions to his squad.
The Mariners moved up to third in the National League North table with successive wins over Chester and Spennymoor Town. The six-point haul followed the signing of former Newcastle United academy midfielder Lucas De Bolle, who previously had a brief stint at the club during the 2024/25 campaign in which he registered one goal and three assists in nine appearances.
De Bolle has come off the bench in the last two matches and will be pushing for his first start when Shields travel to face National League North leaders Oxford City on Saturday.
Mike Williamson impressed with latest addition to his squad
When asked what De Bolle will bring to his side moving forward, Williamson told the Gazette: “Quality. He'll bring hunger. Because, you know, since he's come in, he's been really intense in training.
“I really like what I've seen. He's got a lot of quality. So for me, it's just making sure that we work together and we get him on the pitch early on as much as we can without overloading that. He’s a quality player and I'm really pleased to have him in.”
South Shields ‘looking to improve’
After conceding 17 goals in their previous eight matches, Shields’ 1-0 win at Spennymoor on Tuesday night marked an important defensive milestone for Williamson’s side as they kept a clean sheet.
Despite Shields’ recent upturn in form and movement up the table, the former Newcastle defender is always looking to improve his side. Whether that be with tactics, performances or personnel.
“You're always looking to improve,” Williamson admitted when asked about further signings. “I feel like we still need to improve a lot in certain areas.
“And we're working really hard.”
The 42-year-old was then quick to recognise the quality already within his squad as he looks to manage the minutes of his players, particularly if fresh faces were to arrive.
“In terms of personnel, we've got a great group of lads,” he explained. “Obviously, naturally, people will be disappointed when they're not playing minutes.
“We've still got three or four injured. So when that turns, you know, it will be difficult.”