The 39-year-old joined Dunston UTS last summer and went on to make 24 appearances for the club across league and cup competitions.

Despite injury setbacks across the season, Shaw remained a pivotal part of the squad. We were fortunate to see Shaw reach a huge milestone as he made his 700th career appearance away at Long Eaton United in October 2022.

On his departure, Shaw has gave a statement that he would like to share with our supporters and everybody connected with the club:

"The decision to leave wasn’t easy as I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at Dunston.

The management team and players are some of the best people I’ve come across in my career and I was looking forward to a 2nd season here to hopefully play more games than last year after the unfortunate injuries I sustained. 

I talked to Jon [McDonald] and we mentioned that something like this might come up and he said he wouldn’t stand in my way. That said, I don’t think either of us saw it coming this soon. 

It's a huge opportunity for myself to work as Assistant Manager in the National League North with Blyth and Graham Fenton, especially at this stage of my career, which he understands and has been nothing but supportive of myself and the possibility of the move happening. 

The clubs between them have sorted it out and I greatly appreciate that and I can’t wait to get started. 

Dunston’s committee and Mal have been brilliant with me in my time here, they really looked after me throughout my injuries. I’ll miss everyone here, and I wish the club and everyone associated nothing but good fortune and I can see success in the near future with Jon and lads. 

I’ll keep an eye on everything happening and be sure to call in and see some of the friends I’ve made in my short time at the club."

Manager Jon McDonald has also commented on the departure of Jon Shaw:

"Jon [Shaw] wants to take the next step in his career and make the transition into coaching/managing in senior football, and he has been given a good opportunity at National League North level with Blyth.

He was unlucky last season with injuries, but he's been a pleasure to be around and a positive influence around the club.

Everyone wishes him every success at Blyth and in the future." McDonald has said.

Despite just one season at the club, Shaw made a huge contribution. From the 90th minute winner away at Stockton, to the volley at the back-post away at Long Eaton and everything inbetween.

Finally, our Chairman Malcolm James has also left a comment on Jon Shaw making the move to Blyth Spartans:

"It is with great disappointment that Jon [Shaw] is moving on to try and fulfil his ambitions in a coaching/managerial capacity. 

He goes with the best of wishes of everyone at Dunston UTS Football Club. Best of luck mate."