Lee Cattermole keen on Sunderland and Middlesbrough deals after being named as Gateshead manager | OneFootball

Lee Cattermole has taken charge at National League Gateshead and is open to working with Sunderland and Middlesbrough to bolster his squad before his first season.

He succeeds former Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot, with the appointment confirmed on Tuesday afternoon after a fortnight of talks with interim chairman Graham Wood. Sunderland Echo understands that a number of potential signings have already been proposed following his arrival.

Several players have left since the end of last season, leaving 14 contracted senior players. Talks continue with influential winger Harry Chapman and former Sunderland and Hartlepool United defender Kenton Richardson, who has previously worked with Cattermole.

Gateshead have built a reputation for developing young loanees at the International Stadium in recent years, and Cattermole could turn to his former clubs to keep that pathway going as he begins life on the south bank of the Tyne.

He said any loans would depend on who is available and on the views of academy directors, clubs and agents. He hopes partners would trust his staff to stick to existing development plans and to communicate clearly.

Cattermole added that players would find an environment with care and challenge, and he aims to support and test them at the right moments. He accepted it will be tough for them for good reason, and noted he is not yet 24 hours into the job.

Source: Sunderland Echo