Youngsters impress to earn Shields deals


Wokoma, 18, has been playing in the Bostik League for Grays Athletic, while Irishman Alli is a former Bury youngster.

The pair both impressed in two trial matches earlier this summer.

Of Wokoma, joint-boss Lee Picton said: “Without getting too carried away, he has absolutely enormous potential.

“That’s what we’ve identified with him.

“He has got some raw tools that are really exciting, and our job is to develop and nurture those.

“There are no guarantees with anything and we don’t know how things will pan out, but if he is prepared to work hard, he has got a fantastic chance of being an unbelievable centre-back.”

Co-manager Graham Fenton said of Alli: “We are really excited to bring Millenic to the club.

“He has taken part in two trial games during the off-season and he really impressed us on both occasions.

“South Shields supporters can look forward to seeing an exciting, skilful forward player who likes to take people on and create and score goals.

Wokoma said: “I’m very happy to be here.

“I’ve come a long way and have heard that the ambition of the club is to go far, so I’m eager to get started.

“Lee and Graham told me they believe in my ability and said that the ambition of the club is to push on through the leagues, so I’m here to work hard and hopefully help them do that.”

Alli said: “I’m very happy to have signed for South Shields and can’t wait to get going.

“I’ve spoken to the managers and they told me all about the plans here, and the faith they have in my ability.

“This is a long way away from home for me, so I’ve not come here to mess about.

“I can’t wait to get started in pre-season and get fitter so I can kick on again.

Meanwhile, FA Vase winning defender Darren Lough has left Shields to join Hebburn Town in the Northern League.