David Atkinson joins Blyth on loan
United defender David Atkinson has today joined Northern Premier Division promotion chasers Blyth Spartans on a one-month loan which will keep him at Croft park until 2 January 2016.Atkinson, 23, initially signed for United on an emergency loan deal from Middlesbrough in March 2015. His impressive performances earned him a permanent contract offer which keeps him at the club until the summer of 2017. He has made 37 appearances for the Cumbrians so far.
Manager Keith Curle said: “David has continued to work extremely hard and the only thing that has been missing for him has been game time.
“He’s going to a team that is competing at the top end of its division and he’ll be working for coaching staff who like to work with players who do things properly. This is a move which benefits all parties, which is important when it comes to loan deals, and I know he’s looking forward to getting out onto the pitch.
“We know what he can do and what he’s capable of, and I’m sure it’s a challenge he will face head on.”
Shildon-born Atkinson joined Middlesbrough as an eight year old and earned a place in Aitor Karanka's first team squad late in the 2013/14 season.
The England youth international can play anywhere across the back four and has also featured in midfield for the Boro Development Squad. He spent a month on loan at Hartlepool in September 2014.
