FORMER FC Halifax Town boss Neil Aspin has been confirmed as the new manager of Gateshead.
Aspin, 50, was sacked as Shaymen boss in September after an indifferent start to the season although he had taken the club from Step 4 all the way to the Conference play-offs.
He replaces Malcolm Crosby at the International Stadium following his sacking on Sunday after the 4-1 home defeat to Aspin's old club on Saturday.
Born in Gateshead, Aspin has signed an 18-month contract with the Heed and will watch Saturday's game with Chester before taking over on Monday.
Heed chairman Richard Bennett said: “I am delighted to make Neil my first managerial appointment since taking over the club.
“We have interviewed some excellent candidates. However, Neil displayed all of the attributes and characteristics I was looking for in a manager.
“He has vast experience and knowledge of this league, a fantastic track record and a great eye for spotting talent.
“Neil left Gateshead at the age of 16 to pursue a distinguished playing career before moving into management.
“His time has come to return to the North East to manage his hometown club. His enthusiasm and ambition to take Gateshead Football Club back into the Football League matches my own aspirations, as well as those of my board and everyone connected with the club.
“It was important for me that I made the right choice, and Neil is the perfect appointment.”
