I grew up in my spell at Gateshead, says Kayode
Carlisle United striker Josh Kayode paid tribute to former club Gateshead after making a scoring return to the International Stadium.
The on-loan Rotherham United front man put the Cumbri ans ahead just after the half hour mark.
But a stunning second-half strike from aHeedtria list ensure d that Kayo de had to settle for a draw on his first return to Tyneside since a productive loan spell last season.
The striker led the Gates head front-line during the first five months of the campaign, scored six goals in 22 games for Mike Williamson’ s men and offered a physical presence for the former Newcastle United defender to build his side around.
Kayode believes that his time on the south bank of the Tyne helped his development as a player as he looks to impress in League Two throughout the current season.
He said: “It’s always good to come back and see all of the old faces.
“This place will always have a special place in my heart because it was my first proper loan spell.
“All of the lads were amazing to me and the supporters were amazing to me too.
“But when you’re out on the pitch, you just have to forget about all of that because you have a job to do.
“I went back to Rotherham as a better player after my loan here, it toughened me up physically and mentally.
“I grew up during my time at Gateshead.”
Kayo de returned to Rotherham in January and was rewarded for his form with a new two-and-a-half-year contract.
He was also given a chance to impress on a short loan spell at Carlisle, scoring three times in five appearances.