New owner of Heed is raring to get going

NEW Gateshead owner and chairman Dr Ranjan Varghese has set out his stall to make the club a force in the coming years.

The Hong Kong-based shipping magnate’s planned takeover of the Tynesiders in May fell at the final hurdle.

However, the Indian businessman is now looking forward to the new season, one in which Gateshead are favourites for relegation with the bookies.

Manager Steve Watson has put together a new-look squad on the lowest budget in the division and the new-look Heed are unbeaten in pre-season.

As Watson puts the final touches for today’s last warm-up game at Blyth Spartans, Varghese plans for a brighter future.

Varghese, CEO at Steel Ships Ltd, a global management company, said: “I am extremely happy and honoured to become the new chairman and owner of Gateshead.

“We are now entering an exciting chapter for the club.

“I will visit the International Stadium on a regular basis and look forward to my first match.

“My background is in naval architecture and shipbuilding and I have great affinity for the River Tyne and its former shipyards.

“They built some of the world’s finest vessels. Now the hard work begins! All hands on deck preparing for the new season.

“There will be an exciting, progressive, long-term vision which will lead to a successful, sustainable fully-engaged community club.”

This will be music to the ears of the Heed Army, who feared for the club’s very future when Varghese’s original bid fell through at the 11th hour.

Watson will hope the takeover releases extra funds as he looks to complete his squad with quality additions.

Former Newcastle central defender Mike Williamson, 34, has been training with Gateshead and could sign for the club next week.

England youth international goalkeeper Aynsley Pears is joining the Heed on a season-long loan from Middlesbrough.

Watson said: “We have a very strong dressing room and already there is a very good atmosphere among the lads.

“Hopefully, there will still be additions to come and we can prove people wrong this season.”

Gateshead, unbeaten in nine games against Blyth - seven of them wins - will play on-loan Boro striker Luke Armstrong against his former club.

The 22-year-old is also the son of Blyth boss Alun Armstrong, who said: “It will be strange having Luke play against us but it is a good final friendly for both sides.”