Jack Walker: Locked in.

Newcastle Blue Star are thrilled to announce the permanent signing of defender Jack Walker, on the back of his successful short-term loan spell from Dunston UTS last season.

Jack, who impressed highly during his 8 game loan, will be dual-registered with former club Dunston UTS, allowing the player to continue to assist our Northern Premier League neighbours.

5 clean sheets secured in his 8 games played, Walker slotted in effortlessly to our defence, and played a vital role in getting us to the play-off final.

Following the signing of a new deal, we caught up with Jack to discuss last season, pre-season, and the season ahead.....

1. Jack, welcome back to NE15, this time on a permanent deal, was it a decision that took much consideration?

No there wasn’t much consideration needed, I was hoping I’d made a good enough impact to stay and be a part of the squad for next season.

2. In the 8 games that you played last season, we kept 5 clean sheets, how easy was it slotting straight into the back line?

Very easy, the lads were great, I didn’t feel like I had to change the way I play for me to come straight in and they listened to what I had to say which was great.

3. You, Jack, Harry and Connor formed a brilliant defensive partnership....did the young lads keep you on your toes or follow your lead?!

The young lads certainly helped out with the running aspect of the game, I’m not as quick as I used to be! But like I said before they listened at times when we just didn’t need to take any risks which I think was evident in both the Kendal games.

4. A cruel end to your season - ourselves & Dunston both losing in the play offs - painful experiences, but lots learnt from both I imagine?

I’ve been pretty unlucky with play offs, last year for Dunston and then this year was possibly my worst ever weekend in football! I think if we get to play offs again I’ll just not turn up or I need to take a pen as I’ve never got to my turn yet.

5. Couple weeks since the season ended, and a couple until pre-season starts, is it feet up during this period, or keeping the body ticking over?

Yeah feet up spend time with my wife and kids although the amount of soft plays I’ve been in and bike rides I’ve done I’d say I’ve been kept pretty fit.

6. Honest answer please....do you look forward to that first fitness session of pre-season?

No. Anyone that says otherwise is lying.

7. Aims and objectives for next season for yourself and the team?

Aims would be to concede the least goals in the league and obviously for the team to win the league! Last season was a bit all over the place for me so personally I’d like to play 40+ games if I can.