Newcastle duo boost busy Blyth

Hot-on-the-heels of the signings of striker Andrew Jennings and midfielder Craig Hubbard, Blyth manager Paddy Atkinson has given his squad another boost ahead of the busy Christmas period by signing Newcastle United Under 21s Marcus Maddison and Michael Riley, writes Mark Carruthers.

Maddison and left back Riley, pictured, have agreed to join Spartans on one month work experience loans so they be available for the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division club's next five fixtures, starting with Hednesford Town away on Saturday. Their deals expire on Sunday 6 January, the day after Spartans welcome Matlock Town to Croft Park.

Winger Maddison has already spent a month on loan at Spartans making two appearances. He made an immediate impact on his debut in the 1-1 draw against Nantwich Town, setting up a Spartan's goal for captain Wayne Buchanan. He also scored in his final game, the 5-1 defeat away to Marine. The Durham born player can play on either wing or up front and will be a further boost to Atkinson’s attacking options.

Riley is an attacking left back and has made a number of appearances for the Magpies reserve side, making his debut in March 2011 against Arsenal’s second string. That was a game when Riley set up a late winner for current Spartans striker Phil Airey as they beat their Gunners counterparts 2-1 at St James Park.