Lee Cattermole eyes Sunderland and Middlesbrough links after taking Gateshead job | OneFootball

Lee Cattermole has taken charge of National League side Gateshead and is keen to work with Sunderland and Middlesbrough as he builds his first squad.

He succeeds former Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot after talks with interim chairman Graham Wood over the last fortnight. According to Sunderland Echo, a number of potential signings have already been put to the club since his arrival on Tuesday afternoon.

Gateshead have 14 contracted senior players after several departures at the end of last season. Discussions are continuing with winger Harry Chapman and former Sunderland and Hartlepool United defender Kenton Richardson, who previously worked with Cattermole.

The Tynesiders have developed a reputation for progressing young players on loan at the International Stadium. Cattermole said he could explore options with his former clubs, stressing any moves would hinge on availability and the views of academies, clubs and agents.

He underlined that loanees would be cared for and challenged, with communication and alignment on their development plans. Cattermole added that nothing should be ruled out, but he is not even 24 hours into the role and will see how things progress.

Source: Sunderland Echo