NPL Premier Division
Whitby Town have signed a new defender and extended the loan spell of a midfielder.
Centre-back Matthew Ridley could make his competitive debut for Whitby in the home clash with Atherton Collieries as they have received international clearance for him.
The ex-Darlington, Billingham Town and Chester-le-Street player played for Whitby during their last pre-season before he jetted off to America to study.
Whitby joint-manager Lee Bullock told their website: “I coached Matty at Hartlepool Sixth Form for two years.
“He’s a well-built, tall, talented centre-half who, when he was 16, grew into his body if you like. He’s become a big, strong lad.
“He’s been out in America doing a scholarship out there and done really well their University football
“He’s back in England now and he wants to try and push on for something.
”I know him and he knows me so it’s a decent opportunity for him and we are a little bit short on players.”
On the loan front, Middlesbrough midfielder Malik Diksteel is staying for at least another month having impressed during January.