Former Newcastle United, Aston Villa & West Ham star lands shock managerial role

Newcastle United hero Nolberto Solano has landed his first management spell in England - taking charge of Northern Premier Division side Blyth Spartans.

Since retiring from football 12 years ago, Solano has managed four clubs in three countries - Canada, Sweden and his native Peru, including a spell as a assistant manager of the national team when they qualified for their first World Cup finals for 36 years in Russia back in 2018.  

As a player, the 49-year-old represented Newcastle 315 times, as well as also featuring for Aston Villa and West Ham United in the Premier League. His latest challenge is to guide Blyth back to National League North following their relegation last month.

“It’s a wonderful challenge, I’m really pleased,” said Solano. “One of the reasons I accepted is the way my ex-teammate, Steve Howard showed me the ambition of the club which is some I love. It will be a great opportunity to work with the local lads.

“I know Blyth very well. It’s a very popular team in the North East. I’m very excited, with these wonderful players and the new owner, we need to to work hard, work together and get back up into National League North”.

The appointment has gained a mixed response from the Croft Park faithful with Solano lacking non-league experience. But both owner Irfan Liaquat and sporting director Steve Howard - a former professional with Luton Town and Leicester City - have expressed their delight.

“We are delighted to introduce Nolberto Solano as our new first team manager,” said Liaquat. “A highly talented individual with the perfect blend of skills, expertise, and plenty of flair.

“His exceptional talent, coupled with his extensive network, positions him to achieve great success with as we start our rebuild. I believe Nobby holds the key to what we’ve potentially been missing previously.”

Meanwhile, Howard added: “I am absolutely delighted my ex-teammate has decided to join Blyth Spartans as first team manager. His wealth of experience and coaching skills will be invaluable.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with Nobby to create a team that will get back to the level they should be, and ultimately bring success to the club for years to come.”