Blyth Spartans said the club was shocked and saddened by the news that former player Nigel Walker died on Sunday after a long battle with cancer.

Following five seasons with Newcastle United and time spent at Crewe, Sunderland, Blackpool and other clubs, Walker joined Blyth in 1987 while training to be a teacher.

A club statement said: “His presence on the pitch guaranteed quality, excitement and the unexpected.

“He was certainly one of the most technically gifted players to play for Blyth over the past 50 years.

“Everyone at Blyth Spartans’ thoughts are with Nigel’s family and friends.”

To mark the midfielder’s passing and to allow supporters to pay their respects, the club will hold a minute’s applause prior to kick-off at Saturday’s Evo-Stik Northern Premier League home fixture with Witton Albion.