Kenton Richardson accepts Carlisle United offer after Gateshead exit | OneFootball

Former Sunderland and Hartlepool United defender Kenton Richardson has left Gateshead following the expiry of his contract. He has accepted an offer to join Carlisle United, linking up with former manager Rob Elliot.

Gateshead confirmed his departure in a Tuesday night statement after talks over new terms, saying he had chosen a new opportunity elsewhere. Richardson described it as the right time to end his four-year stay at the International Stadium.

The Durham-born defender came through Hartlepool’s academy and made 50 senior appearances before joining Sunderland in summer 2020. He was a regular for the Under-23s and made three first-team outings in the Papa John’s Trophy against Lincoln City, Bradford City and Manchester United Under-21s. Loans with Notts County and Spennymoor Town preceded a permanent move to Gateshead soon after their National League North title.

He helped the Heed reach successive FA Trophy finals and lifted the cup in 2024 after a penalty shootout win over FC Halifax Town. He also reached the FA Cup proper in three of his four seasons, facing AFC Wimbledon, Stevenage and Walsall.

Reflecting on his time at the club, Richardson highlighted two Wembley finals, captaining the side and the pride of winning the Trophy, and thanked team-mates, staff, supporters and volunteers. He said the move felt like the perfect moment for him.

Gateshead, now led by Lee Cattermole, have re-signed Tyrelle Newton and youngsters Preston Leech, Lucas Lowery and Ben Williams. Jacob Butterfield has joined Scunthorpe United as player-coach and Brad Nicholson has signed for Carlisle on a two-year deal. Former Sunderland youngster Tommy Lavery is currently the only new arrival, with pre-season starting on Wednesday and a first friendly at Blyth Town next Tuesday.

Source: Sunderland Echo