FORMER Middlesbrough academy youngster Nathan Dale has joined Northern Premier League side Marske United.

The 23-year-old defender is reunited with recently-appointed Marske boss Graeme Lee, who worked with him during his former role as an academy coach at Rockliffe Park.

Dale, who initially joined Gateshead after being released by Middlesbrough, spent last season playing in Iceland’s Second Division with Kordrenigir.

The Redcar-born centre-half made 31 league appearances as Kordrenigir finished fifth in the table, but will spend next term back in North Yorkshire with Marske.

“It’s great to get Nathan signed up, someone I’ve worked with at Middlesbrough FC,” said Lee. “He’s a very good player, who was a pleasure to coach, and always wants to do things right. He was always consistent in his performances, and I’m looking forward to working with him again.”