Mellish gets offer of first pro contract

GATESHEAD have offered young full-back Jon Mellish his first professional contract as the squad takes shape for next season.

The Tynesiders have already brought in three midfielders, a defender and a striker during the close season.

The squad is now up to 20, although striker Nyal Bell will be on a half-season loan at Conference rivals Chester.

Another player could leave the club on a permanent basis, with Mellish one for the future according to assistant manager Lee Nogan.

The 19-year-old played a key role in Gateshead A’s championshipwinning season in the Northern Alliance division one title.

Nogan said: “Mellish is someone who stood out from the under-19s side and did well in the friendly against Newcastle U23s at their training ground.

“He’s worth developing and we’ll see how he goes. He’s a left-footed player who can play in a number of positions, which is always useful.”

One player who won’t be joining Gateshead is Forest Green Rovers’ experienced midfield man Sam Wedgbury.

The former Macclesfield and Stevenage player had indicated an interest in moving to Gateshead, but will now be joining another club.

“That deal is now dead in the water,” added Nogan, “but we’re working on a few possible signings and I’ll be sounding out a couple of players this week.

“It may be that we get someone over the line in the next few days, but you have to be patient and we’re happy with the way the squad is shaping up.”

The Heed are also waiting to see whether former defender Carl Magnay (below) returns to his hometown club or stays at current club Hartlepool United.