Ex-Toon Man Signs For Cambridge United

FORMER Newcastle United midfielder Ryan Donaldson has joined Cambridge United from their league rivals Gateshead.

The 22-year-old arrived at Gateshead last summer after being released by their Premier League neighbours.

He had featured just six times for the Toon but was a regular for the Heed last term, scoring eight times and providing nine assists in 41 appearances.

Donaldson was offered a new deal by the Tynesiders but rejected it in favour of linking up with former Newcastle United academy coach Richard Money at Cambridge.

He has penned a two-year contract with the U’s and director of football at the Abbey, Jez George, thinks he’ll be a great addition.

Speaking to the club’s website, George said: “We are delighted that we have managed to persuade Ryan to commit his future to Cambridge United.

“He is an extremely talented young player with a fantastic pedigree plus the quality and versatility that made him a really crucial addition to our process of rebuilding the squad.

“The gaffer was the big draw for me and probably the most important reason for me going to Cambridge,” said Donaldson.

“I know what he did with me before at Newcastle and I know he’ll make me a better player and hopefully we can achieve all our goals this season.”

United will pay Gateshead a compensation fee for Donaldson as he is under the age of 24 and was offered terms of re-engagement by the Heed.