Alun Armstrong have been unveiled as the new manager of the Heed
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16:15, 16 Jun 2025
New Gateshead manager Alun Armstrong
New Gateshead manager Alun Armstrong(Image: Gateshead FC)
Former Middlesbrough striker Alun Armstrong has been named as new manager of Gateshead. The appointment comes after the Heed hierarchy held interviews with a shortlist of six potential candidates over the last week before entering into final negotiations with Armstrong over the weekend.
Armstrong, who started his playing career at Newcastle United before going on to play for the likes of Ipswich Town and Stockport County, will return to the dugout for the first time since he left National League North club Darlington in September 2023.
The 50-year-old enjoyed a successful spell in charge of Blyth Spartans between 2016 and 2019 as he led the Croft Park club to the Northern Premier League title before establishing them in the National League North.
Armstrong’s time at Darlington brought two appearances in the ‘proper’ rounds of the FA Cup and included a 2-1 win at League One club Swindon Town.
Heed chairman Bernard McWilliams believes Armstrong is the right man to piece together a ‘reinvigorated squad’ as the club face what is already facing up to be a challenging season in non-league football’s top tier.
He said: "After pulling together a shortlist we have then taken the last few days to quickly interview those selected. I must say this, it was a very difficult decision as all those who applied and ultimately interviewed were of a very high standard.
"Only one person could be successful however, so with that said, I'm delighted to welcome Alun to the club as our new first-team manager.
"The last few weeks have seen quite a few changes at the club, and with Alun in position I feel we can begin rebuilding and bring a re-invigorated squad together ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.
"One thing that was at the centre of this process is that we are one club - 'wor club' - and with that said it is imperative that we re-connect through the manager and the players to our fans and our community, and Alun fully supports this."
Armstrong also admitted he is facing a tough test to get the Heed back on course after what has been a disjointed start to the summer that has brought the departure of several key figures.
One integral member of the squad Armstrong will inherited also left the club on Monday as Robbie Tinkler moved to National League North neighbours South Shields after his Gateshead contract came to a close.
Armstrong stressed his determination to produce a hardworking and exciting Gateshead side and is hoping to give some identity back to the club on and off the pitch.
“I see it as a challenge, and it's something I'm really excited by," explained the new Heed boss.
"I want to bring some of the identity back to this club that I think it used to have. First and foremost, I want lads to work extremely hard for the team and that's the biggest thing, but on top of that we want to be exciting and scoring goals.
"At the end of the day fans pay money to see goals, it's an entertainment business, and we want to see the ball in the back of the net as much as we possibly can.
"I know it's going to be a tough one, but no stone will be left for me to try and get this battle done and hopefully get to where we want to be.”