Gateshead confirm Louis Storey departure as manager search progresses
Gateshead are working towards appointing a successor to former manager Rob Elliot.
Louis Storey has rejected the offer of a new deal at Gateshead and has followed former Heed boss Rob Elliot to National League rivals Carlisle United.
The former Hebburn Town and South Shields defender enjoyed an overwhelmingly successful first spell with the Tynesiders after he played a key role in their National League North title win under former Newcastle United centre-back Mike Williamson in 2022. Storey remained an integral figure at the club throughout the following seasons as they reached back-to-back FA Trophy finals and scored in a penalty shoot-out win against Solihull Moors as the Heed experienced Wembley glory in the competition in May 2024.
Elliot and Storey left the International Stadium five months later after accepting an offer from then-League One club Crawley Town - but returned to Gateshead earlier this year to inspire a remarkable upturn in fortunes as the Heed avoided relegation from the National League against all odds. Elliot brought an end to his second spell in charge of the club last month when he joined Carlisle - and Storey has now followed him to Brunton Park after turning down the offer of a new deal at Gateshead.
He told Gateshead’s official club website: "Gateshead FC will always hold a special place in my heart and I'm incredibly grateful for all of the opportunities and memories the club has given me over the years. I've been fortunate to work alongside some fantastic players, staff and volunteers who have become friends for life. The dedication, commitment and passion shown by everyone behind the scenes is truly special and a huge part of what makes this football club unique.
"The supporters were incredibly welcoming and supportive when I returned to the club in January, and I can't thank them enough for that. To see the belief, energy and connection grow amongst the Heed Army during the second half of the season was a real pleasure and something I'll always remember. It was an honour to represent the fans and this football club once again throughout my second spell here. When I returned in January, my goal was simple – to help keep Gateshead FC in the National League and help set the club up for its next chapter. I'm proud that we achieved that together and leave knowing the club is in a strong position moving forward.
“This wasn't an easy decision because of how much Gateshead means to me, but the opportunity in front of me was one I felt I couldn't turn down. I wish everyone connected with the club nothing but success in the future, and I'll always look back on my time here with great pride and affection."
Talks
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Storey had been one of the candidates to succeed Elliot as Heed boss - but other options were already being pursued before Wednesday’s announcement. Interim chairman Graham Wood is fronting the efforts to name Elliot’s successor after holding face-to-face talks with another candidate this week and there are hopes a new man could be in charge by the end of next week.