Factfile: John Lufudu

John Lufudu has become South Shields’ first signing of the summer following his departure from Spennymoor Town.

After he was announced as a Mariner, we take a closer look at the 28-year-old right-back.

• John Lufudu was born on October 5th, 1994 in the Democratic Republic of Congo

• Although known primarily as an attack-minded right-back, Lufudu has shown real flexibility throughout his career

• During his time at Sheffield FC, he often played as a striker or on the wing

• Sheffield was his first club in senior football after he progressed through the local ranks, and he also played for AFC Emley and Tadcaster Albion in his younger days

• A move to Ashton United followed for Lufudu in October 2019 and he established himself as a force in the Northern Premier League during his time at the club

• He caught the eye in three matches against Shields in quick succession in the 2020-21 season, with his pace down the right flank causing persistent problems

• After that campaign was halted at tier seven and below because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lufudu linked up with National League North side Guiseley on a dual-registration basis

• An impressive display against Spennymoor Town attracted the attention of then-Moors boss Tommy Miller – now assistant manager at South Shields – and he signed the full-back in May 2021

• Lufudu rejoined Ashton on loan from Spennymoor in February 2022 after Miller had departed the Brewery Field. He had made 20 appearances for the club to that point

• After returning to Spennymoor in the summer of 2022, Lufudu forced his way back into the reckoning

• He went on to play 35 times in National League North last season, chipping in with three goals

• Spennymoor narrowly missed out on the play-offs, with Lufudu’s performances earning him the Fans’ Player of the Year and the Supporters’ Club Player of the Year awards

• Lufudu has now opted to take up a new challenge at South Shields after becoming the club’s first summer signing