Morecambe have completed the signing of former Burton Albion and Derby County striker Jack Stretton.
The 23-year-old has agreed a one-year deal as Derek Adams looks to rebuild following relegation to the National League.
Striker Signs On As Rebuild Begins
Stretton’s arrival marks Morecambe’s first summer addition, joining after a brief spell with Burton Albion in League One, where he made three appearances off the bench. The former Scotland U19 international is hoping to kick-start his career with regular football at the Mazuma Stadium.
Having started out at Derby County, Stretton made his professional debut under Wayne Rooney in November 2020 and netted his first senior goal against Peterborough United the following year. Loan spells at Stockport County and Carlisle United followed before he joined the Hatters permanently in January 2023.
He also featured in the National League during spells with Oldham Athletic and Woking, giving him plenty of experience in the fifth tier. That background could prove vital as the Shrimps target an immediate return to the EFL.
Speaking about his ambitions, Stretton said:
“On a personal level, it’s to get regular games for myself and obviously show people what I can do, score goals and just help the team in any way I can to achieve hopefully what everyone wants – promotion.”
Manager Derek Adams, who remains in post despite speculation around his future, expressed confidence in the signing:
“Delighted to welcome Jack to the football club. He’s been a renowned goalscorer at youth level and we’re hoping to bring out the potential that he’s shown over the years, working with the players and staff at Morecambe Football Club.”
The club also confirmed the departure of Adam Lewis, who has opted to join Chesterfield after rejecting a new contract. The 25-year-old made 52 appearances for the Shrimps last season, scoring once, and becomes the latest to move on after the club’s drop into non-league.
Lewis explained his decision:
“I know a lot about this club, I know the manager and Gary Roberts really well. I played against Chesterfield last year when I was at Morecambe. They are a great team; they passed the ball well and I think it suits me.”
Writer’s View
Jack Stretton’s arrival looks like a calculated gamble by Morecambe as they attempt to arrest the slide after relegation. While his recent form hasn’t lit up the stat sheet, there’s no denying the 23-year-old has raw potential, and the National League may just offer the platform he needs.
Derek Adams knows what’s required at this level, and securing young, hungry talent like Stretton—who still has the desire to prove himself—might be key to pushing for an immediate return to the EFL. That said, with several senior players departing, recruitment will need to be both shrewd and swift over the coming weeks.
