Blyth Spartans have removed Joe Kendrick from the transfer list – following discussions between the defender and manager Tom Wade.
The 29-year-old had found himself out of favour under previous manager Paddy Atkinson, who placed him on the transfer list in mid-January.
After scoring in the 2-1 loss at Frickley Athletic at the beginning of February – his fourth goal in 23 appearances this season – he was forced to sit out the next five games, before Wade brought him on as a substitute in the 3-1 win over Kendal Town a fortnight ago.
Joe then announced his return to the starting line-up by crashing home a penalty in added time, during Saturday’s 3-2 win over Ilkeston FC.
After that game, Kendrick said: “Personally, it’s been a tough few months, with my character (being) brought into question. What the fans have to know is that I want to stay at the club and I enjoy it at Spartans.
“I love the club and I want us to be successful.”
Following the decision, Wade said: “Joe is a professional footballer and you have to respect him for that. He’s been around and he’s done his job.
“He’s not a bad footballer. He wouldn’t have played professional football for as long as he has if he was poor.
“He’s had a bit of a spell on the sidelines recently, but all I’ve said to Joe is that I’m going to play him and that it is up to him to prove to me and everyone else – including himself – what he’s like. And, to be fair to him, he’s taken on that mantle really well.
“He scored the winner on Saturday and you could see just what it meant to him. It’s obvious he loves Blyth Spartans.”