Kerr signing for Pool a big blow for Heed
GATESHEAD have sold another key player despite being on the fringe of the Vanarama National League play-offs.
Former Scotland under- 21 international Fraser Kerr has joined Hartlepool United for an undisclosed fee.
It is another hammer blow for manager Ben Clark after top scorer Scott Boden was sold to Chesterfield for £12,000.
Boden rejoined the Spireites last month and with Kerr now gone there are fears further players will be sold.
This at a time when the club is under a transfer embargo, though they meet National League officials tomorrow.
All players’ contracts are up at the end of the season, the majority after the first week in May.
Kerr was one of the highest earners at the International Stadium and previously played in the SPL for Motherwell.
Heed fans have responded angrily and fear for the future of their club under the current regime.
A club statement said: “Kerr had previously stated his intention to stay on Tyneside despite interest from Hartlepool.
“However, a subsequent offer was enough to secure the services of the former Birmingham City youngster.”
Kerr was in his second season at Gateshead and an ever-present in one of the division’s best defences.
Hartlepool, also believed to be interested in Heed youth products Jon Mellish and Tom White, are delighted with the capture of Kerr.
Manager Craig Hignett said: “We have a list of targets we have been working on for next season.
“Fraser was one of the names on top of that list so I am delighted we have been able to do a deal to bring him in before the summer.
“He has had an excellent season at Gateshead.
“He was someone we were keen to bring here and we are thrilled he has decided to join us.”