Lee Cattermole named Gateshead manager on two-year deal | OneFootball

Lee Cattermole has been appointed Gateshead’s new first-team manager on a two-year deal. The 38-year-old former Sunderland and Middlesbrough midfielder steps into his first senior managerial role.

The appointment follows talks with interim chairman Graham Wood over the last fortnight, and Cattermole begins work at the International Stadium immediately.

Cattermole made 272 Premier League appearances for Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Wigan Athletic, then ended his playing career at Dutch side VVV-Venlo in 2020 before moving into coaching.

He has coached in Middlesbrough’s academy, on the first-team staff at Bristol Rovers and Burnley, and with the Northern Irish FA’s Under-17s. Just over a month ago he narrowly missed out on the Hartlepool United job.

He will work alongside Pools legend Ben Clark, who signed a long-term deal earlier this month to continue as first-team coach.

Cattermole is relishing the chance, outlining that his vision will take time, with clear demands on professionalism and a consistent approach. He wants to understand Gateshead’s identity, retain its core and build on it collectively rather than impose a single way.

Wood prioritised the managerial appointment on his return as chairman and considered Cattermole the standout candidate, with terms agreed after meetings. Cattermole brings extensive top-flight experience and has worked under Gareth Southgate and Martin O’Neill.

Source: Sunderland Echo