South Shields are hoping to add to their squad following the club record sale of Sonny Finch to League Two club Grimsby Town.

Mike Williamson has revealed South Shields FC are ‘working on a few things’ as they look to add to their squad following the departure of forward Sonny Finch to League Two club Grimsby Town.

The former Middlesbrough youngster enjoyed a productive seven-month spell with the Mariners as a successful loan spell was converted into a permanent switch towards the end of last season. However, Finch’s former at Mariners Park captured interest from a number of EFL clubs and Grimsby Town won the race for his services when they triggered a six-figure release clause in his contract.

South Shields manager Mike Williamson (photo Kevin Wilson) | Kevin Wilson

placeholder image — South Shields manager Mike Williamson (photo Kevin Wilson) | Kevin Wilson

His departure has left a void within the Mariners squad and there are several other positions that require strengthening as Williamson’s side look to push for promotion during the former Newcastle United defender’s first season in charge.

Speaking after Monday’s 1-1 draw with Spalding United, Williamson admitted the Mariners are looking to add to their squad and stressed the need to prevent players from being too comfortable throughout the season.

When asked if he was expecting to be able to add to his squad, the Mariners boss told The Gazette: “Yes, we are working on a few things but I don’t know how close they are at the moment. I would love to say we aren’t looking but we don’t want players to become comfortable and unfortunately in football, if you get comfortable, football passes you by.”

‘We will find another prospect’

Sonny Finch celebrates after grabbing the only goal in South Shields' home win against Southport (photo Kevin Wilson) | Kevin Wilson

Williamson warned South Shields they will be unable to find another Sonny Finch as he described the young forward as ‘special’. However, the Mariners boss believes the club will be able to find another prospect that they can help forge a strong reputation during his time at the club.

He said: “He’s special and that’s why he’s got a move to a League Two club and it’s why Grimsby triggered his release fee. It bodes well for our future prospects because it shows we have a platform and Sonny came here, his data was through the roof and he got his rewards. We won’t find another Sonny Finch but we will find another prospect that we feel we can improve and help us.”

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