Jed Abbey excited at joining South Shields 'journey'

Jed Abbey has told of his excitement after agreeing a move to South Shields.

The midfielder was one of three signings announced by the club on Wednesday and could make his debut in Saturday’s season opener against Alfreton Town, subject to receiving FA clearance.

Abbey scored 19 goals in 53 appearances for Alvechurch last season as he made his major breakthrough in senior football.

The 21-year-old progressed through Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Academy before spells with AFC Telford United, Stafford Rangers and Banbury United.

The Netherlands-born player said: “I’m delighted to join South Shields.

“It’s a big club at this level and a club on the up having just been promoted from step three, so I want to be part of the process and the journey.

“It’s a proper full-time set-up here and I’m very excited to see what we can do this season.

“I can’t wait for the first game on Saturday and hopefully the fans will be right up for what is going to be a historic day for the club.”

Abbey also contributed eight assists last season for Alvechurch and possesses impressive technical and physical attributes.

On what supporters can expect from him, he said: “I can play No.4 or No.8 in midfield, but excel more in a box-to-box role.

“I like to get on the ball, find passes and pockets of space and score and assist. I’m not afraid to shoot.

“I can score free-kicks and penalties, and pride myself on goals and assists, but throughout everything I work hard and give 100% for the team.”

South Shields manager Julio Arca said: “Jed is a young player with a lot of potential, and we’re very happy to have him with us.

“He can bring a lot of athletic style to the team and is someone who can play in different positions in the central area of the pitch.

“He’s also good on set-pieces, arriving in the box and scoring goals, so he brings a lot of quality to our squad and increases the competition for places in our midfield.”