Former Hatter O'Donnell heads to Blyth Spartans

Former Luton Town midfielder JJ O'Donnell has signed for National League North side Blyth Spartans AFC following his release by Gateshead.

The 29-year-old had moved to Croft Park on a season-long loan deal from the Tynesiders last term, which was cut short after four games and one goal, due to the coronavirus pandemic which meant the league campaign was made null and void in February.

O'Donnell signed for Luton from St Albans City in January 2010 and went on to make 51 appearances for the Hatters, scoring three goals.

He was to play a huge part in Town's famous FA Cup win when the Hatters, then in the Conference, defeated Premier League side Norwich City 1-0 at Carrow Road, setting up Scott Rendell for the only goal of the game.

On leaving in June 2014, O'Donnell went to Gateshead where he 107 times, scoring 11 goals, as he missed almost three years after being diagnosed with a foot condition called sesamoiditis in 2015.

However, he managed to return to playing once more in March 2017, but wasn't offered a new deal this summer, and on joining Blyth, told the club's official website: “I’m delighted to be here. I had a taste of it last season when arriving in on loan.

“It’s a club I enjoyed being a part of during the short time I was here.

“It’ll be great to play in front of supporters at Croft Park and hopefully give them a team to be proud of.”

Blyth boss Michael Nelson added: "He has a fantastic attitude and his enthusiasm is infectious.

"He was a big help to some of the younger players last season and I can see him providing that same help to our younger players this season.

“His energy and quality on the pitch will be crucial for us this season with the way we want to play.

“We are delighted to be able to bring him in.”