Former Sunderland and Middlesbrough star named as new Gateshead manager

Former Premier League star Lee Cattermole will take his first steps into management with National League club Gateshead.

The former Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Wigan Athletic midfielder was officially named as successor to Rob Elliot on Tuesday afternoon after putting pen-to-paper on a two-year deal at the International Stadium.

Much like Elliot and another former Heed boss, Mike Williamson, Cattermole will now embark on life as a senior manager with the Tynesiders – and he revealed the club’s willingness to give a platform to new bosses was one of the main attractions of the role after he spent time in various coaching roles with Bristol Rovers, Burnley and Middlesbrough.

He said: “It’s something I’m really excited about. The opportunity to get a crack at first-team management – especially at Gateshead as well. I think you’ve proven over the years that you’ve given that platform to first time managers. 

“When you go into coaching or management, you’ve got to decide where you feel you’re going to be best suited, and I’ve been clear that I want to be a manager. It’s something I’ve made clear from the outset that I want to do, and it’s here now, and I’m excited for the challenge.”

Priority

Gateshead had interest from several potential successors to Elliot after his departure to National League rivals Carlisle United was confirmed – but interim chairman Graham Wood described Cattermole as the ‘standout candidate’ and believes his will benefit from working under some top managers during his playing career.

He said: “On returning to the role of Chairman, it was clear that my immediate priority was to appoint a First-Team Manager. Of the applicants already assembled, Lee was the standout candidate and I decided there was no need to look further. 

“Following meetings with Lee and his agent, I am pleased to confirm that we have agreed terms and that Lee will commence his duties immediately. Lee brings with him the experience gained from over 250 games in the Premier League, where he worked with some of the most respected managers in world football, including Gareth Southgate and Martin O’Neill.”