Watch Sonny shine bright

South Shields boss Mike Williamson says he hopes young forward Sonny Finch ‘tears it up’ in League Two after landing a move into the EFL with Grimsby Town.

By Mark Carruthers

The National League North Mariners have received a club record fee from the sale of the 21-year-old after the Mariners triggered a release clause in his contract.

“It’s a brilliant move for him,” Williamson said. “We are very disappointed to lose him because he’s an excellent human being to start with and a really talented footballer as well.

“You can see the impact he has had on the pitch, in games and in the changing room.

“It’s really exciting for him, he’s got all of our blessings and best wishes and I hope he goes down there, tears it up, and goes to the next level.”

Oportunity

A former Middlesbrough academy product, Finch joined Shields on loan in January before making a permanent switch to Mariners Park two months later.

After scoring seven goals and providing eight assists in 23 appearances during the second half of last season, Finch has kicked off the current campaign in similar fashion by scoring the only goal of his unbeaten side’s win at Scarborough Athletic.

He also played key roles in vicrories over Chorley and Morecambe the following week before admiring Grimsby boss David Artell swooped.

Finch agreed personal terms and underwent a medical with the League Two club on Monday before putting pen-to-paper on a three-year deal at Blundell Park.

In doing so, it seals a return to the EFL for the first time since he spent time on loan at MK Dons in the first half of the 2024-25 season.

Finch told The Mariners website: “I’m absolutely de- lighted to get the deal done and I’m really looking forward to getting started.

“Grimsby is a massive football club and I’m excited by the opportunity to come here, work hard and show the supporters what I can do.

“I’ve had a taste of senior football over the last couple of years and I feel ready to take the next step in my career.

“The ambition of the club really attracted me and I’m looking forward to being part of what we’re building here.

“I can’t wait to get started and hopefully I can contribute with goals, hard work and performances on the pitch.”

REELED IN: Sonny Finch has left the Mariners of South Shields for the Mariners of Grimsby

PICTURE: Alamy