Easington Colliery sign former Sunderland academy forward Nathan Greenwood | OneFootball

Easington Colliery have signed former Sunderland academy forward Nathan Greenwood as they prepare for Northern League Division One.

According to Sunderland Echo, the 25-year-old joined the Academy of Light from Seaham Red Star in the summer of 2019, featuring alongside Dan Neil, Anthony Patterson and Bali Mumba. He returned to Red Star in July 2020 after his contract ended, then appeared for Whickham, Consett, West Auckland Town and Shildon.

Greenwood spent last season with Northern League Division Two side Chester-le-Street Town and now steps up to Division One after agreeing to join Easington earlier this week.

Manager Olly Hotchkiss expressed delight at securing a player he had long admired at Shildon, praising Greenwood’s pedigree and lively start in training.

He described him as an exceptional talent who can excite supporters and noted he led pre-season running drills, reflecting his standards.

Easington have also added winger Joe Walton, formerly of Morpeth Town and Hebburn Town, in a player-coach role.

Walton managed Sunderland West End last season and will combine coaching duties with a place in the squad for the new campaign. He will add leadership to a young squad and his recent managerial stint will strengthen the club on and off the pitch.

Source: Sunderland Echo