Gateshead FC is delighted to confirm the signing of Gateshead FC Academy defender Ben Williams on a professional contract.
The centre-back has penned a two-year contract ahead of the 2024/25 season, with an optional extension available at the club’s discretion, and will link up with the first team squad during the pre-season campaign.
Williams spent the 2023/24 season with The Heed’s U19 side after previously appearing for Sunderland U18s, for whom he made 44 appearances across three seasons before making the switch to Tyneside in 2023.
The 19-year-old joins former Gateshead FC Academy players – and current first team squad members – Connor Pani and Oli Thompson as a graduate for the 2024/25 Vanarama National League campaign.
Gateshead FC Academy is run in partnership with Gateshead College to develop young players into the professional game.
“The two-year is a big thing for me, it gives me the two years to prove myself and prove why I should be here after coming through the academy,” said Williams.
“I did everything I could last season within the academy to prove why I should get given a contract, and then a few conversations came about between myself, Rob [Elliot] and my agent.
“I just want to get going and prove to everyone, and myself, that I’m good enough for this level.”
