Gibraltar international joins Blyth Spartans as captain makes decision on future
Blyth Spartans have announced that captain Shay Richardson has left the club after requesting a release from his contract.
Richardson joined Spartans last November as one of former manager Michael Connor's first signings.
He went on to make 30 appearances for the club during his time at Croft Park and earned the captain's armband over the summer.
Richardson cited increased work and family commitments as the primary reasons for his departure.
"After taking some time away from football to recover from my rib injury, I have taken the opportunity to reflect on my current commitments and priorities," he said.
"Following careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to step away from playing at this level.
"While this has not been an easy decision, I know it is the right one for me at this stage in my life.
"I still have a strong desire to play, but I now need to do so at a more local level that fits better around my personal and professional responsibilities.
"Football has always been driven by passion and enjoyment for me, never financial reward. That same love for the game remains, but I recognise that my circumstances no longer allow me to give the level of commitment the club deserves.
"I would like to sincerely thank everyone at the club for their support, understanding and camaraderie. I wish the club, management and all the players continued success for the future."
It has been a busy few days for Spartans, who are currently third-bottom of the NPL East Division.
They have welcomed midfielder Jeremy Perera to the club on a permanent basis.
The 19-year-old arrives after making two UEFA Conference League appearances for Gibraltarian outfit FC Magpies of Gibraltar this campaign.
He previously spent time in the Northern Premier League, representing Heaton Stannington in 2024.
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