Ell of an appointment as Rob joins the Heed team
GATESHEAD have appointed their first Technical Director ahead of their opening home game of the 2022/23 Vanarama National League.
Conference North champions Gateshead let a two-goal slip on the opening day at Dagenham and Redbridge but still came away with a creditable draw.
They now take on another London club in Barnet tomorrow followed by the visit of second favourites Notts County on Tuesday.
It is an important four days on the home front for the Tynesiders, who have brought in Rob Elliot as their technical director.
The former Newcastle, Charlton and Watford goalkeeper will contribute both on an off the pitch in his new role.
The 36-year-old will also register as a player, giving Gateshead three goalkeepers with James Montgomery and Newcastle loanee Dan Langley already at the club.
Chairman Neil Pinkerton believes Elliot’s appointment is another step in the right direction for the region’s leading non-league club.
He said: “Rob shares the board’s philosophy and vision to get Gateshead back into the Football League.
“His appointment is one which fits into the club’s over-arching strategy in both the short and long-term.
“Rob’s enthusiasm and passion has been clear for all to see and his experience at all levels of the game will be incredibly beneficial.”
Meanwhile, captain Greg Olley, meanwhile, has dismissed outside fears the Heed could struggle on their return to the National Leaguethis season.
He said: “I have seen plenty of fans from other clubs saying we will be down in the bottom four.
“I am sure if they support a team in this league they will change their mind once we play them.”