Former Sunderland academy forward joins National League newcomers after Gateshead loan

Former Sunderland youngster Ethan Moore has agreed to join National League newcomers Kidderminster Harriers after spending the second half of last season on loan at Gateshead.

The Academy of Light product has battled his way back from a serious knee injury that left him on the sidelines for two-and-a-half years and he stepped up his bid to return to full fitness when he secured a half-season loan spell at the International Stadium in January. However, with Gateshead fighting against the odds to preserve their National League status, Moore had to shown his patient side as he was gradually eased into the Heed side as the second half of the season wore on.

After making six brief cameo appearances, Moore came off the bench at half-time as Rob Elliot’s side all but secured safety with a goalless draw at Carlisle United before the young forward grabbed his first senior goal in a final day defeat at Altrincham. Moore was expected to join Gateshead on a permanent basis when his Sunderland contract came to an end - but Elliot’s move to Carlisle scuppered that deal.

The 21-year-old has now signed a contract with Kidderminster as they prepare for a return to non-league’s top tier - and Moore believes he is now at 100 percent fitness as he takes the next step in his career.

He told the Harriers website: “That’s all I’m looking for, to play as many games as I can, and show everyone what I can do really. I think last year was quite difficult at Gateshead, being in that situation, 12 points adrift, but I think every time I came on I put in 100 percent and that’s what I’ll do here. It was quite difficult but I do like the pressure. I knew my body was back to 100 percent so when I’m coming back on to the pitch I’m strong enough to get through the game and produce what I can. It makes you love it even more, when you’ve been out that long and you come back, that’s all you’re thinking about, getting back on to the pitch. I am really grateful to get back.”

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