The 22-year-old became one of the first players through the door last summer after an impressive season with Whitley Bay. Neary won the Supporters’ Player of the Season award at the Northern League Division One outfit in the 2023-24 season, and Jon McDonald wasted no time bringing the promising youngster to the club.

After Neary played 51 times for the club in his debut season, he has reflected on what was another devastating end to the season as Dunston fell short in the play-off final in a penalty shootout for the second year in a row.

"I'm still gutted about how the season ended," he said.

"Everyone has done so well this year to get the club to finish second, the highest the club has ever finished. It's frustrating too because I thought we were the better side in the final, but our quality just wasn't there on the day. It was left to penalties which makes it anyone's game.

"On a personal level, I thought I had a good season. I should've chipped in with more goals and assists, but overall I think my performances have been pretty consistent across the season. I have really enjoyed it this year and to play that many games is nice too," Neary said.

He also reflected on what his first season was like in the Northern Premier League East Division after making the transition up from the Northern League where he played for Boldon, and then spent two years at Whitley Bay.

"I thought I handled it quite well. At the start of the season, I played a few games on the right wing which I found a bit tough at times due to not playing there much prior to joining Dunston. I got frustrated sometimes because I thought I wasn't playing as well as I could have. But, once I got a run of games at right back, I got more and more confident.

"It's a tough league and every single team has someone who can hurt you. Especially with playing at right back, most of the teams will have a tricky winger, so it was just about making sure I was on it every week.

"I have loved it this season and it is the most I have ever enjoyed my football. I think I have massively improved from this point 12 months ago too, so it was an easy decision for me to sign on, really. The lads and the management are all top class and I think Dunston is the place for me to try and kick on again," he added.

Finally, Neary has discussed what his plans are during the off-season and his aims for the upcoming 2025-26 campaign.

"I've got a couple of holidays coming up so I am looking forward to getting away and having a bit of chilled time. It has been a long season alongside being at uni, so it will be nice to relax for a little bit before it all kicks off again.

"The goal will stay the same for next season. Everyone at the club, on and off the pitch, has put in so much work to get this club promoted. To get beat in the same way two seasons in a row will hopefully give us that extra bit we need to go all the way next season.

"It would be nice to get it done without the play-offs, but we know the league will be tough and there will be some good teams again this season who will all be going for promotion. We will be ready for it, I am sure."