South Shields FC have completed the signing of midfielder Lucas De Bolle, who returns to Mariners Park on a short-term deal having spent the last 18 months with Portuguese second-tier side Portimonense.
Second spell at Mariners Park
The 22-year-old, a former Newcastle United academy player and ex-Scotland Under-21 international, previously had a short stint with South Shields in late 2024 after reuniting with coach Elliott Dickman. In that earlier spell he made nine appearances, scoring once and providing three assists before moving to Portugal.
De Bolle made limited appearances for Portimonense, where he managed three league outings during his time in the Algarve, and has now chosen to return to the National League North side. The club described the deal as short-term; no further contractual details were released.
Player aims and manager continuity
On rejoining South Shields, De Bolle said he is looking forward to the challenge of winning games amid pressure to perform and to playing again in front of the home supporters.
“I was here for a short time last time, I think eight or nine games, and I really enjoyed my time and I’m really looking to enjoy my time, for however long it is, again here with probably a better team that it was. I really like the manager and the staff so I am really excited… Firstly, it would be winning games with the situation where the club is. I think the goal is pretty clear so it’s winning games, feeling that pressure of having to deliver performances week-in, week-out to get three points, to play in front of the fans too. I really enjoyed playing at home especially because I thought the fans were great.”
The arrival represents continuity for the squad, as De Bolle has previously worked with members of the coaching team and remains familiar with the club environment under head coach Mike Williamson.
What the numbers say
De Bolle’s two most recent stretches in senior football are straightforward to summarise. They underline why South Shields have opted for a short-term signing that brings familiarity and attacking creativity to midfield.
| Period | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Shields (Nov 2024) | 9 | 1 | 3 |
| Portimonense (18 months) | 3 league appearances | 0 | 0 |
- De Bolle is a product of the Newcastle United academy and a former Scotland Under-21 international.
- He rejoins South Shields on a short-term basis after a spell in Portugal.
- The midfielder previously made nine appearances for South Shields, registering one goal and three assists.
For South Shields supporters, the signing is likely to be viewed through two lenses: the immediate boost it may bring to matchday options and the longer-term question of whether the player can re-establish himself at the club and help push the team up the National League North table. The short-term nature of the deal suggests the club are seeking an immediate contribution rather than a lengthy recruitment project.
Local fans will also take note of De Bolle’s comments about enjoying the atmosphere at Mariners Park. For a club forging close ties with its community, players who respond well to fan backing can make a tangible difference in tight league campaigns.
South Shields have not announced when De Bolle will be available for selection, but his familiarity with the coaching staff could speed up his integration into the squad. The club will hope the midfielder can translate his previous form at Mariners Park into consistent performances as they navigate the demands of the National League North season.
This signing follows a trend among non-league clubs of reuniting familiar faces with managers and staffs who know how best to deploy them — a pragmatic approach that can pay immediate dividends on and off the pitch.
