Lee Cattermole keen on Sunderland and Middlesbrough deals after taking Gateshead job | OneFootball

Lee Cattermole has been appointed Gateshead manager and is open to links with former clubs Sunderland and Middlesbrough as he builds his first squad.

He succeeds Rob Elliot, confirmed on Tuesday after talks with interim chairman Graham Wood over the last fortnight. Sunderland Echo understands several potential signings have already been proposed in the wake of his arrival.

With 14 senior players under contract and several departures since last season, Gateshead need additions. Discussions continue with winger Harry Chapman and former Sunderland and Hartlepool United defender Kenton Richardson, who previously worked with Cattermole.

Recent years have seen the Tynesiders develop young loanees at the International Stadium, and Cattermole indicated he could turn to Sunderland and Middlesbrough to continue that pathway.

He stressed any moves depend on availability, the views of academy directors, clubs and agents, and on trust that Gateshead will follow each player’s development plan with clear communication.

Cattermole said prospective arrivals would find an environment that balances care with challenge, with support delivered at the right level on the right days. He would not rule anything out, noting he is less than 24 hours into the job.

Source: Sunderland Echo