Reece Styche: Gateshead ambition persuaded new signing to relocate family

Reece Styche scored eight goals last season, including a hat-trick against Gateshead

Striker Reece Styche says Gateshead's ambition and interest was strong enough to persuade him to relocate his pregnant wife and family.

The 27-year-old finished last season on loan at Macclesfield from Kidderminster, having not previously played in the north of England.

He has accepted a one-year-deal to join the National League side.

"The gaffer Neil Aspin knows my partner is due to drop my second child any time soon," Styche told BBC Newcastle.

"It shows a commitment from me that the club can go places."

Three of Styche's eight goals in 32 games last season came in one match against Gateshead for Macclesfield in March, alerting Aspin to his talents.

Styche is one of several new arrivals at the International Stadium for 2016-17, along with defenders Jamal Fyfield, Liam Hogan and Manny Smith, plus winger Wes York.

Former Harrogate and Halifax boss Aspin moved to Gateshead in November 2015, securing a top-half finish, and this is his first full pre-season with the squad.

"I chose Gateshead because of Neil Aspin really," Styche continued. "He showed me he really wanted me, explained where he wanted to see the club, and I was keen to join."