Gateshead Keep Midfielder Ryan Donaldson For The Season

GATESHEAD midfielder Ryan Donaldson will remain with the Tynesiders until the end of the season after signing a contract extension.

Donaldson, 21, joined the Blue Square Bet Premier club on a half-season deal in the summer following his release from Newcastle United.

He has since scored three goals in 15 appearances, including one in each of his last two games, and has now committed himself to the Heed until the climax of the 2012/13 campaign.

Speaking about the youngster’s new deal, Heed boss Ian Bogie said: “We gave Ryan time to adapt following his release from Newcastle.

“He has really blossomed and is a talented footballer with great attributes.

“He did not hit it off in the early games after we threw him in but has been our outstanding performer in recent weeks.

“The goal he scored at Wrexham recently was out of the top drawer, one of the best I’ve ever seen.

“You don’t play for Newcastle United unless you are a good player and he is better than some players currently plying their trade in the Football League.

“We have given him a chance which he has grabbed with both hands. He is playing in a side that plays good football and is enjoying his time at Gateshead.

“It is a good piece of business to keep him at the club and I expect him to go from strength to strength over the next few months.”