Jack Roles signs for Shields!

We are delighted to announce the signing of Jack Roles, who joins the Mariners on an initial 18-month contract.

A technically gifted midfielder, Roles brings significant Football League and National League experience, having developed through the Tottenham Hotspur academy after joining the club in 2015.

During his time at Spurs, he progressed through the youth ranks and featured in senior pre-season fixtures, including an appearance against Juventus.

Roles gained valuable EFL experience during a standout loan spell at Cambridge United in League Two, where he made 23 appearances and scored five goals. His performances earned him League Player of the Month in October 2019, with a long-range strike also nominated for Goal of the Month.

Following subsequent spells with Stevenage, Crystal Palace, and Woking, Roles signed for Crawley Town in January 2023.

He went on to play a key role in Crawley’s promotion campaign, scoring in the 2024 EFL League Two play-offs, including a goal in the semi-final second leg victory over Milton Keynes Dons.

He later signed a new two-year deal with Crawley before spending time on loan at Gateshead, where he added further senior minutes and goals.

At international level, although born in England, Roles represents Cyprus, having featured for both the U19 and U21 national sides.

Jack added:

“It feels brilliant. It’s a great club with real ambition, and when I saw where they were in the league, it was an opportunity I didn’t want to turn down.

I worked with Mags last year, and we have a great relationship. I’ve spoken to ex-teammates about the gaffer and they’ve all had nothing but positive things to say about him and his style of coaching. The gaffer was really clear about how he wants to play and where he sees me fitting into the team. What he wants to do with the club was a big thing for me, and it matches exactly what I’m looking for at this stage of my career.

I like to think I can bring creativity in the final third, energy between the lines, and a strong work rate out of possession.

I want to help create chances for the front line, who have scored bundles of goals this season, chip in with goals when I can, and do my bit for the team.

Ultimately, I’m here to help the lads continue what they’ve started and stay where we are in the league.”

Now joining the Mariners, Jack adds quality, experience, and composure in midfield as we look ahead to the next chapter.

Welcome to the club, Jack! 👊