Attacking full-back Tyler Forbes has re-joined Spennymoor Town on a permanent basis, following a highly-successful loan spell last season.
The former Fleetwood and Brighton and Hove Albion man has put pen to paper to make a sensational return to The Brewery Field when it looked as though he’d played his last game in black and white.
The 24-year-old lit up the Vanarama National League North in his eight league appearances for The Moors last season, scoring three sensational goals and registering two assists in a short timeframe.
Forbes had a lengthy list of offers on the table from the Football League and also around the North East non-league scene, including some significant packages. But, the speedy defender chose to re-join Spennymoor based on the strength of the project ongoing at the club and his affinity to boss Jason Ainsley.
He said: “I’m looking forward to putting a Spennymoor shirt on again; I loved the time I spent here even though it was cut short due to the unfortunate circumstances we find ourselves in.
“I have got unfinished business here and I’m delighted to be signing. I can’t wait to hit the ground running.
“After speaking to the gaffer regularly over the past few months he has been a major factor in me wanting to come back this season despite other interested parties. It just felt right to get something across the line here based on the time I’ve enjoyed at Spennymoor.
“This club is unique and I’m delighted to be a part of that. I look forward to seeing everyone back at The Brewery Field sooner rather than later.
“For now, I hope everyone stays safe.”
Despite plenty of solid defensive displays, Forbes will be remembered most fondly for his spectacular scoring run in the closing stages of the season. He struck a stunning 30-yard half-volley in the closing minutes at home to AFC Telford United to snatch a well-deserved draw for his side.
Just a week later he thundered a long-range effort from the inside-right position past Altrincham ‘keeper Tony Thompson, who stood no chance against the strike’s vicious swerve.
He then made it three in three with a sublime flick around the corner from a right-sided cross, turning the ball home acrobatically to make it 2-0 in the final game of the season against Hereford.
Manager Jason Ainsley will be grateful to have secured the services of one of the club’s most in-form players at the end of the last campaign.
He said: “We are delighted that Tyler has agreed to return. He’s not just a top player, he’s a fantastic lad.
“From the moment he joined the club he showed everyone what he was capable of with his defensive qualities, athleticism and the stunning goals he scored at the end of the season.
“Tyler had a lot of interest in him but he enjoyed his football with us so much he was determined to return and we are pleased he has decided to make his move here permanent.”
Forbes is the first of a three targeted new signings to be announced over the next two weeks, as outlined in Chief Executive Brad Groves’ passionate end-of-season summary last night. If you have not viewed Mr Groves’ article, it is essential reading not just for Moors’ fans but for all non-league supporters.
