Former Newcastle United stopper makes National League move after summer departure

Former Newcastle United academy graduate and Geordie shot-stopper Dan Langley has been snapped up by National League side Oldham Athletic.

The 22-year-old joins the side until the end of the season having been released by the Magpies academy this summer after spells at Gateshead and Spennymoor Town. Langley was a regular in the Newcastle United youth teams, turning out 31 times for the under-21 side and also appeared in pre-season preparations with the first team in 2021.

Langley spent the start of this season at Blyth Spartans but only made one appearance, which was against former club Spennymoor Town in a 2-0 win at the end of August.

Oldham Athletic goalkeeping coach Steve Collis has praised Langley, who will compete with Magnus Norman and Mat Hudson for a starting role. He said: "I think it's important to have three quality 'keepers on our books, who will push each other and that's what Dan will help us do. He's still very young for a goalkeeper at 22, and he's had experience at this level before which is fantastic."

After putting pen to paper with the fifth-tier side, Langley said: "I was down here for a few weeks in the summer and saw what a good group there is with Magnus and Mat. I'm really delighted to be here and see if I can make my own mark, and kick on from there."

Langley confirmed his departure from Newcastle United after six years this summer with a short statement thanking his 'boyhood club' for the opportunities over that time.

Taking to X, the goalkeeper wrote: "Six years on and my time at Newcastle has come to an end. Want to say a massive thanks to all the staff for helping me over my time here. It’s been an honour to have been able to represent my boyhood club and meet some of the best people along the way. Thanks @NUFC for everything!"