Former Wigan Athletic, Sunderland and Rangers winger joins non-league outfit
Former Wigan Athletic winger Jordan Jones has joined National League North outfit South Shields.
The 31-year-old - who won 19 caps for Northern Ireland between 2017-21- had been without a club since leaving Carlisle United at the end of last season.
He joins up again with boss Mike Williamson, who signed him for Carlisle two years ago.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to represent the club and build on the great relationship I have with the manager," said Jones.
“It’s an opportunity to fall back in love with football and do whatever it takes to bring success to South Shields.”
Jones joined Latics from Scottish giants Rangers in the summer of 2021.
But he struggled to nail down a regular spot under Leam Richardson, and spent time out on loan at St Mirren and Kilmarnock.
His final season at Wigan, in 2023/24 under Shaun Maloney, saw him become a key member of the side, and he was offered a new deal when his contract expired at the end of the campaign.
Jones initially turned down the offer, choosing instead to explore his options, and Latics moved on and signed replacements in his position.
Having not found a club by the time the 2024/25 season started, Jones returned to Wigan on a one-month deal - to cover an injury crisis - before joining Carlisle.
"We are delighted to announce the signing of Northern Ireland international Jordan Jones, subject to FA and league approval!" read a South Shields statement.
"Jones links up with Mike Williamson and his squad, adding a wealth of EFL, SPFL, European, and international experience to the dressing room.
"His most recent spell came with Carlisle United, where he spent two seasons competing in League Two and the National League.
"We’re extremely excited to welcome Jordan to South Shields and look forward to working with him."
Jones joins fellow former Latics wideman Sean McGurk at South Shields.
Latics goalkeeper Tom Watson spent most of last season on loan at the north east club.
South Shields lie fifth in the National League North table, two points behind leaders Oxford City.
They finished second behind AFC Fylde last season, but were pipped to promotion in the play-offs by Kidderminster Harriers.