Mike Williamson: Defender to be Gateshead player-manager

Mike Williamson made 170 appearances for Newcastle and played for Wolves and Oxford before joining Gateshead

Gateshead have appointed former Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson as player-manager.

Williamson, 35, was already a coach at the club where he made 32 appearances last season.

Former boss Dave Dickson left by mutual consent on Monday, having taken charge following Ben Clark's sacking in April.

The Heed were relegated to the National League North after breaching rules on financial reporting, permitted loans, as well as defaulting on creditors.

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Gateshead will not be appealing against the demotion decision.

However, the club confirmed earlier this week that they intend to remain a "full-time professional outfit".