Dunston UTS FC are delighted to announce the double signing of experienced Phil Turnbull  and Craig Baxter ahead of the 2021/22 season.

Both players come with a fantastic pedigree in the game and are a major signal of intent from Manager Chris Swailes, as he looks to push on for promotion this season.

34 year old centre midfielder Phil Turnbull is capable of playing with either foot and is described as a fiercely competitive player. Having started his career at Hartlepool United before joining York City, with loan spells at Blyth Spartans and Gateshead, a permanent move to Gateshead in 2008 would see him go on to play over 300 games for the Tynesider’s.

In a 7 season spell, which included two successive promotions, the club eventually moved up to The National  League and he became a firm favourite at The International Stadium, before moving to Darlington in 2015, where he would gain promotion to The National League North in his first season.

A move to his home town club South Shields happened in 2018 and the move was seen a major signing for the club. He has been key to the recent playing success at South Shields but with the club moving to full time this season Swaz has wasted no time in bringing the vastly experienced and talented player to the UTS Stadium.

Craig Baxter is a 34 year old right back and brings with him a of a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. He was a key player for The Mariners during a five season spell making 188 appearances.

Having started his football career with Newcastle United, Baxter would spend 9 years with Gateshead FC as the club moved up the pyramid to come within one game of reaching the Football League.

Described as rock solid at the back and strong going forward, Baxter’s signing is somewhat of a major coup for Dunston UTS FC.