Gateshead captain to leave the club after three seasons

It was former Heed manager Neil Aspin that brought the Welsh wing-back to Tyneside in the summer of 2017 and he established himself as a key player at the club during an impressive first season.

He signed a new one-year deal at the end of the campaign and he became captain of a new-look Heed squad that defied the off-field issues surrounding the club to challenge for a play-off place in the National League.

It was Barrow that spoke out over those issues when he revealed that former owner Dr Ranjan Varghese and his controversial financial advisor Joseph Cala had offered his services to a number of clubs.

Gateshead were relegated into the National League North last summer as the Football Association punished the club for financial irregularities under their former owners – but Barrow solidified his position as a firm favourite with the Heed Army when he signed another one-year deal.

However, his time with the club is now over after Gateshead confirmed that he would be released at the end of his contract along with defender Toby Lees, midfielder Connor Oliver and forward Connor Thomson.

In an emotional social media post, Barrow said: “Didn’t think it would come down to this but my time at Gateshead has come to an end.

“Really disappointed and lost for words.

“First off, I would like to thank the club, great memories and great goals. Was an honour to play for the badge and an honour to be captain for the past two seasons.

“The last three seasons was the best group of lads I’ve ever played with, was an honour to be your captain in the last two seasons. Going to miss the changing room a lot.

“To the fans – I don’t know where to start.

“Thank you for looking after me for the past three seasons.

“For taking a Welshman into your family, supporting me through tough times at the club and for the amazing bond we have because that’s what makes the club special.

“It’s a family club run by the supporters.

“Onto the next chapter, wherever it will be.”

One player that could be staying at Gateshead is striker Paul Blackett after the club revealed that they had offered him terms for the new season.

Blackett joined the club last summer after a successful trial period and made 14 appearances before impressing during a loan spell with Northern Premier League Premier Division club Whitby Town.