Ex-Leeds United academy ace aiming to make his mark at Gateshead

The former Leeds United academy stopper made his senior debut in Saturday’s 4-1 home win against Southport after regular number one James Montgomery suffered an injury in training just days earlier.

Heed player-manager Mike Williamson confirmed that Montgomery could be out for a number of weeks – meaning Male will remain in the starting line-up for Tuesday night’s home game against National League North leaders Gloucester City.

The 20-year-old keeper reflected on a solid debut against the Sandgrounders before turning his attention to showing what he can do over the coming weeks.

He told The Echo: “I loved it, it was different class, and the lads were brilliant,” explained the former Leeds United youngster.

“Monty got injured earlier this week, and being the back-up goalkeeper, I knew that I had to be ready to stand up to the challenge.

“I was just happy to be playing, to get that chance to show everyone what I can do as a keeper and hopefully I can keep doing that in the next couple of weeks.

“I was buzzing, we got the three points, and the lads are all happy with that.

“We now want to take that into Tuesday’s game because we know we can compete with the best teams in this league.

“I can’t wait for the game and I know the rest of the lads are the same.”

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