Gateshead offer deals to Richardson and Storey as retained list confirmed as John agrees new contract

Gateshead have confirmed they have offered new deals to six players just days after the departure of former manager Rob Elliot.

The former Newcastle United goalkeeper has spent the last month in talks with the International Stadium hierarchy as they look to move forwards on and off the pitch in the aftermath of a miraculous escape from relegation last season. However, Elliot and the Heed parted company on Wednesday after failing to reach an agreement and the FA Trophy-winning boss has now been appointed as manager of National League rivals Carlisle United.

Gateshead have now belatedly released their retained list and ten players remain under contract for the new season including key midfielder Keaton Ward, striker Ash Boatswain and forward Billy Chadwick. There was a further boost for supporters after the Heed triggered options in the deals of key trio Adam Desbois, David Ferguson and Brad Nicholson. However, news is still awaited over the futures of club captain Kenton Richardson, player-coach Louis Storey, midfielders Josh Home and Tyrelle Newton, defender Ben Williams and influential winger Harry Chapman after they were offered new deals.

One player that will remain at the International Stadium for the new season is former Middlesbrough academy midfielder Fenton John after he agreed a new two-year deal. The 22-year-old became a key figure with the Heed side last season and his impact and unquestionable progress was rewarded when he was named as the club’s Young Player of the Season and Supporters' Player of the Season.

Discussions

The Heed have also confirmed they remain in discussions with Jacob Butterfield, Joe Grayson, Lucas Lowery and Preston Leech and Mex Melbourne, Carter Milmore, George Shelvey, Ollie Thompson and Connor Pani will all depart after their contracts came to an end - although the latter will continue to be supported during his rehabilitation and recovery from a serious injury that prematurely ended his season.

Loan signings Shea Connor, Rio Patterson-Powell, Mark Beck and Ethan Moore have all returned to their parent clubs after their temporary spells at the International Stadium came to an end. The Heed held an interest in securing both Beck and Moore on permanent deals - but it remains to be seen how Elliot’s departure will impact on both deals.

Your next non-league read: Former Newcastle United keeper Rob Elliot parts company with Gateshead