Most recently at Whitley Bay, the 38 year-old becomes Jon McDonald’s latest signing after putting pen to paper.

Phillips has enjoyed a successful career where he spent three years at Gateshead FC before playing for Harrogate Town and Blyth Spartans.

The versatile player then went onto enjoy highly successful periods at both Spennymoor Town and South Shields where he won the FA Vase with both clubs.

He then played five seasons at Morpeth Town, where he worked alongside Jon McDonald, before moving onto Hebburn Town last season where we was a part of the squad that finished in the Northern Premier League East play-offs and won the Durham Challenge Cup for The Hornets. Following his exit from Hebburn, Phillips signed for North Shields over the summer before signing for Whitley Bay shortly after.

“I’m happy it’s sorted and I’m looking forward to getting going with the lads.” He said.

“It’s all came out of the blue actually. I had decided to retire after a short stint with Whitley Bay. They were great with me. Jon [McDonald] dropped me a message asking if I’d be interested in helping out.

“With the amount of games left, and with it being at the business end of the season, I jumped at the chance. I worked with Jon previously and I have a lot of respect for him, hence the decision to come out of retirement.” Phillips added.

The new recruit then went on to discuss what attracted him to Dunston, and what type of player he is.

“Dunston is a great club with a lot of great people involved. I’m sure it will progress in the future. I wasn’t always a fan of visiting here as you knew what type of game you were in for, but thankfully I’ll be on the other end of that.

“I think my game has probably changed a lot as I’m at the back-end of my career. I like to get on the ball and retain possession. In the last few years, I’ve mainly been playing as a central midfielder or at left back.

“I’m sure everyone involved will be looking for a play-off position come the end of the season. I’m personally looking to finish as strong as possible and also help the team in any way possible.” Phillips added.

Dunston manager Jon McDonald has also commented on the arrival of his latest signing.

“I worked with Wayne at Morpeth, during a successful period, in which he captained the side. He’s had a superb career in non-league, and been a winner, everywhere he’s been. 

“We are delighted to be able to add him to our squad. He brings quality, experience and a winning mentality to an already very good group.” McDonald said.

By Callum Pattison

Image Credit - Beauty Time Photography