The former Newcastle United Academy prospect has put pen to paper after training with the squad for the last couple of months.

“It feels great. It’s been a long time coming for me to get back on the pitch due to injuries, but I feel like I am at a decent place in terms of my body and the next big step in terms of me overcoming my injury is to get back playing. I honestly couldn’t think of a better place to do it than here at Dunston,” he said.

“I spoke to Jon earlier in the summer about the possibility of coming in to train through pre-season and he seemed really keen for me to come in and be a part of the group which I am really grateful for.

“I’ve loved training with the lads over the last couple of months and I can’t wait to play with them now.”

McNall started his career at Newcastle United working his way through the youth ranks. After a long-term injury keeping him out of action for a prolonged period of time, McNall is now ready to get going again at the UTS Stadium.

“I played for Newcastle United Academy through all the age groups and left there at 19-years-old, where I had a loan move to Gateshead during my final year which was cut short due to a knee injury.

“After getting back fit, I signed for Blyth Spartans in the National League North and enjoyed a couple of seasons there before I suffered another really serious knee injury which has kept me out for the best part of three years which I’ve just recovered from,” McNall said.

McNall will add further strength to Jon McDonald’s squad and our newest acquisition has gave the supporters an insight into what they can expect from him.

“I’m an out and out striker. I like to be in and around the box scoring goals.

“With this team, the goal is definitely to be promoted. They have come very close the last couple of seasons, so this year the goal is to go one further. The squad of players here is very good, so there is no doubt that should be the aim.

“For myself, the goal is to stay fit and for my knee to be okay. With me being out for so long, I know it is going to take quite a while to get up to speed, but as long as I stay patient and stay injury-free, I know that I am capable of adding to the group,” he said.

Upon the arrival of Lewis McNall, manager Jon McDonald has said:

“Lewis has trained with us since pre-season; he has been recovering from a serious injury and he has worked very hard to get back to fitness. He’s got great pedigree and quality with having been at Newcastle United and then scoring goals for Blyth Spartans in the National League North.

“He’s a player who has a great football brain and we are delighted that he has joined our group.”

Lewis will be available for selection ahead of Saturday’s FA Trophy tie at home against Brighouse Town (3pm KO).

Welcome to Dunston, Lewis!