Grimsby Town have bolstered their squad ahead of next season after confirming the transfer of defender Reece Staunton from Spennymoor.
The Mariners finished agonisingly close to the playoffs last season, and were just two points away from seventh-placed Chesterfield. David Artell’s side failed to win any of their last four matches, which saw them slip behind both The Spireites and Salford City.
Town Add Defender
The club confirmed the move for Spennymoor defender Reece Staunton, who signed a two-year contract at Blundell Park. The 23-year-old played 84 times for Spennymoor in the National League North, including their appearance in the FA Trophy final last season, where they lost to Aldershot Town at Wembley.
Originally a product of the Bradford City academy, Staunton made his debut for his boyhood club at 15 years old in 2017. He would become a regular squad player for the club, and played both at centre-back and left-back. He would be loaned out to both Ossett United and Bradford (Park Avenue), and he would join them permanently in 2022. Avenue were relegated the following season, and he would join Spennymoor on a free transfer.
Last season saw him play at left-back, where he would provide seven assists and earn player of the season accolades for the County Durham club as they finished ninth in the National League North.
Speaking to the club upon his arrival, Staunton said:
“I’m buzzing to be here and it’s something I’ve dreamt of for the last three years, coming back to the EFL.
“I’m naturally a left-back that gets up and down. On the ball, I’d say I’m very composed and I like to contribute with assists. I got a fair few last season, so I’m hoping I can do the same this season.”
Writers’ View
Spennymoor fans have raved about Staunton’s ability so for him to finally make a return to the EFL with Grimsby Town is a big move. His versatility could be useful asset in Artell’s back five system, especially with links to current first choice Denver Hume from Lincoln City as the 26-year-old remains out of contract. With limited experience in League One and League Two at Bradford City and being still at a young age, this is a promising move for Town as they look to improve on a ninth-placed finish.
