TALENT BAILEY’S AIMING TO STAY
TITLE winner Owen Bailey is determined to extend his stay with the National League North champions.
The versatile midfielder was released by boyhood club Newcastle United last summer after spending over a decade within the Premier League club’s academy.
After spending time on trial at Doncaster Rovers, Bailey joined Gateshead on a one-year deal during pre-season and has gone on to become a firm favourite with the International Stadium faithful.
The 23-year-old has been a key factor in the successful put together by Mike Williamson’s men and was on target in last Saturday’s 3-1 win against Southport and Monday’s title-clinching draw at Chorley. Only player-coach Lewis Storey and striker Cedwyn Scott have made more than the 48 appearances Bailey has made during his first season in senior football on the south bank of the Tyne. Bailey’s one-year deal will come to an end at the end of June but the Heed have an option to extend his contract by a further 12 months.
That seems likely to be invoked once their title celebrations subside and Bailey remains keen remain part of their squad as they prepare to return to the National League. “I couldn’t have imagined it would have went this way,” he told The NLP.
“I remember signing for the club and never in my wildest dreams did I imagine we would be in the position we are in right now.
“That’s testament to the squad, the players, the fans and everyone involved at the football club. We are all in it together.
“What we have created so far has been outstanding and I have enjoyed my time so far. “I am waiting to hear what happens next year – but I would love to stay here and kick on with this club.”