Rob Elliot makes shock return to Gateshead

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National League strugglers Gateshead have confirmed former Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot has agreed to a second managerial spell at the International Stadium.

The move comes after a day of major change on the south bank of the Tyne as Elliot and former Heed player-coach Louis Storey both agreed deals to return to the Heed after the latter spent the first half of the season with National League South club Dorking Wanderers.

Former manager Alun Armstrong has stepped aside and brought an end to his six-month reign – but the former Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough striker will take up a role as Head of Football Development as part of a restructure behind the scenes at the International Stadium.

Elliot remained in talks over his return over the last two days, and despite speculation suggesting a deal had been concluded, an agreement was not officially completed until late on Friday night after the final details of his contract and how the club will move forward were found.

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Adapt

There are high hopes that at least two new signings will be concluded in time to feature in Saturday’s visit to Tamworth, with Gateshead close to adding an experienced striker and a National League defender to their squad.

Further new signings are in the pipeline and the Heed remain hopeful they can boost their squad in a bid to avoid relegation into the National League North after a recent run of eight consecutive defeats left them sitting at the bottom of the National League table.

In a statement released on the club website, chairman Bernard McWilliams said: “As always, we will adapt and overcome to put Gateshead Football Club in the best possible position we can. 

“With that said, we can now confirm a restructure within the club. Alun has agreed to step to one side to continue with his role within Gateshead FC Academy and Gateshead College, heading up the development of youth within the club and working. on what we have already introduced on that front this season.

BACK IN THE HOTSEAT: Rob Elliot makes his return to the Gateshead dugout

Opportunity

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Alun for the hard work he has put in, within a rather difficult situation.

“We can also confirm with immediate effect the appointment of Rob Elliot as first-team manager, and the board of directors are now looking towards strengthening the squad in order to improve our position and work towards achieving safety in the National League.

“Works are also at an advanced stage on other key appointments as we move to improve the club’s situation, which also includes building our off-field support.

“We continue with our plan to work towards financial stability this year, and we hope to maintain our status as a National League club to allow for the best start for next season and planning to build a team that can compete at the highest level.

“I would like to thank the Heed Army, who have stuck by us, and we now look forward to 2026 and hope that we can rely fully on your support, both home and away.”

Achievable

Former boss Armstrong added: “Over the last month, I have had a lot to deal with personally, so after meetings with Bernard and Rob, it is in the best interests of myself and the club to step to one side and let Rob take the reins.

“I will continue to help and support him, the players and the club in any way I can to make sure the three-year plan is still achievable.

“I would like to thank everyone from the players to all the staff, volunteers and fans for their work, help and support whilst doing this dual role.

“Let’s stick together and give the lads the best chance to get the job done.”

More on the changes at Gateshead will be featured in Sunday’s print edition of the NLP

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