Robbie Tinkler signs for South Shields FC

We are delighted to announce the signing on Robbie Tinkler upon the expiry of his contract from Gateshead FC.

The 28 year old defender links up with the Mariners having spent the previous four years with Gateshead where he saw great success, getting promoted to the National League upon winning the National League North on 94 points, only losing six games that season in the league. Tinkler also saw The Heed make the trip to Wembley under Rob Elliot where they won the FA Trophy, beating Solihull Moors in a nail biting 2-2 draw, to go on and win 5-4 on penalties.

Tinkler started his playing career with Middlesborough, featuring for the Under-23’s before leaving in 2016 to sign for Gateshead. After two seasons, Tinkler would go on to spend a season in the National League with Aldershot Town, finishing 18th in the league. The following season, Tinkler joined York City in 2020, but saw the season cut short after just thirteen games due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tinkler then returned to Gateshead in 2021, featuring in over 100 games for The Heed.

South Shields FC Manager, Ian Watson spoke very highly on his first signing for the Mariners,

“Robbie is a massive signing for the club and shows how ambitious the club is.

I’ve worked with Robbie a lot over the years and he’s outstanding for the way we are going to play this season, he will set the highest standards around the club and everyone will enjoy having him at South Shields”

The signing of Robbie Tinkler will be made official on July 1st, 2025.