Triple threat is looming for Gateshead

GATESHEAD are sweating over the future of their three loan stars in the New Year – and they could even have to let players go in January.

Star striker Luke Armstrong and goalkeeper Aynsley Pears both joined the Heed on season-long loans from Middlesbrough.

The Teessiders have a recall option in January, with both players having excelled during their stints on Tyneside.

In addition, attacking midfielder Luke Molyneux is on a half-season loan from neighbours Sunderland – meaning he is set to return to the Stadium of Light on January 2.

Armstrong has bagged eight goals in 16 games while Pears has been an ever-present in goal and has kept nine clean sheets.

Losing either, or both, Boro man would be a body blow to the Heed’s promotion play-off hopes.

Scott Boden and Steven Rigg are the only other recognised strikers at the International Stadium.

Scot Mark Foden, signed in the summer from Ross County, is the back-up goalkeeper, with his only run-out for Gateshead coming in the Durham Challenge Cup.

Meanwhile, Black Cats’ playmaker Molyneux has been man of the match in two of the last three games but his loan stint is coming to an end.

Gateshead boss Steve Watson would like all three players to stay in the Heed fold and continue their development.

However, the former Magpie admitted after Saturday’s win over Bromley the squad may have to be trimmed.

That is likely to involve fringe players, some of whom may go out on loan, as money remains tight at the International Stadium.

Watson said: “I don’t think we will be in a position to strengthen and, believe it or not, we may even have to lose players.

“Most squads would want to keep four strikers.

“We have three very good strikers, all different, and Armstrong has done very well for us.

“Pears is a young goalkeeper learning his trade. He has also been a good acquisition and Molyneux has come into his own during the last month.”

Whatever the outcome, all three loanees will feature in the busy festive period, including the derby double-header against Hartlepool.