National League news: Rob Elliot strengthens Gateshead squad with new arrivals

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The National League sides have been busy today, with a number of new arrivals shaking up squads across the division.

Only a handful of fifth-tier sides are in league action this weekend due to Isuzu FA Trophy and FA Cup fixtures.

Fans can turn to Football Blogs for the latest FA Cup third-round predictions for the Non-League hopefuls.

However, this has meant Gateshead are not in action this weekend, allowing the Tynesiders to move quickly under new manager Rob Elliot as he begins reshaping the squad following his return last week.

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Excited

The first arrival for Gateshead saw Keaton Ward arrive on a free transfer from fellow National League side Altrincham.

The former Boston United, Kettering Town and Telford United midfielder made 22 appearances for Alty, chipping in with two goals and two assists.

Upon signing for Heed, he said: “I’m really excited! I think that the way the club is looking forward, and after speaking to Rob, it’s a really good opportunity and I’m looking forward to it.

“The main aim is to keep the football club in the league, and I wouldn’t have come here if I didn’t think we were going to do it. It’s going to be a challenge, but we will do it.”

Back home

He was later joined by Levi Amantchi, who also arrived on a free after spending the first half of the season with promotion-chasing Rochdale.

The 25-year-old failed to score for Dale in 14 appearances and leaves EFL side Walsall to make the step down the football pyramid permanent.

“I spoke to Rob about his ambitions and how he wants to help the club, and that was suited to me,” said Amantchi, who has previous experience in the North-East with Blyth Spartans and Darlington

“It’s good being back home mentally for me – hopefully I’ll get my northern accent back!

“It’s going to be tough, I think all the boys know that here, but I think everyone is willing to take the pressure on.”

In other news

Elsewhere, Forest Green Rovers, Scunthorpe United, York City and Yeovil Town have all added new faces today.

Chibuzo Nwoko has joined Rovers on a loan deal until the end of the season from Premier League side Fulham.

Robbie Savage said of his latest recruit: “Fulham are trusting us with one of their best young talents. He’ll be brilliant for us, can play as a 6 or an 8, he’s left-footed and dynamic!”

Attacker Kyle Hurst has arrived at Scunthorpe on loan from League One side Doncaster Rovers until the end of the season.

The 23-year-old spent the first half of the season with Gateshead, coming up with six goal contributions across 29 games across all competitions.

Finally, Yeovil have had a busy day, which ended with defender Morgan Williams leaving for high-flying York City and began with Jonathon Page reuniting with manager Billy Rowley.

The defensive midfielder arrives at Huish Park from Walton & Hersham on a deal until the end of the season.

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