Clark, 46, brings a wealth of Football League experience having previously managed Huddersfield Town, Birmingham City, Blackpool and Bury, whilst also managing Kilmarnock in Scotland

The midfielder made 528 appearances in his professional career, scoring 66 goals, most notably for Newcastle United, Sunderland and Fulham.

Clark’s first step into management was at Huddersfield in 2008 where he took the side the League One play-offs in back-to-back seasons.

During his four-year spell, he set a Football League record of 43 consecutive games undefeated – which still stands today.

And Clark, who has not managed since parting company with Bury in October 2017, is honoured to join Blyth.

He told http://www.blythspartans.com: “First and foremost, it’s football – I love it, I want to be on the grass,” said Blyth Spartans’ new manager.

“I’ve been too long out the game and an opportunity to be at home around my family at a great club with great tradition. When they contacted me and I was honoured”.