Ed Francis is officially a Gateshead player after signing a deal for the 23/24 season!
Ed Francis has signed for Gateshead FC on a permanent basis for the next two season!
Ed Francis joined Gateshead FC on loan last season from Notts County until the end of the season. Ed helped the heed survive their first season back in the national league and fit right into the squad working alongside Callum Whelan and Greg Olley in the central midfield. During his spell last season, Ed didn’t only just play in central midfield. Ed had some excellent performances in defence, covering for other players due to injuries.
Ed Francis has shown great potential in his career so far. Francis began his youth career at premier league side Manchester City, Ed joined the academy at a young age and was able to learn from some of the best coaches and trained alongside other talented players.
“I’m buzzing to be back, ever since I stepped through the door I’ve felt at home here! The players, staff and fans all made me feel welcome so I couldn’t be happier to come back on a permanent basis!”
“The way the gaffer plays suits me really well and the quality of players in the club gives us a very good chance for next season. I want to continue where I left off, playing attractive football and most importantly winning games for the team and all the lads” explained Francis.
“I’m really looking forward to get back to training with the lads, thankfully I’ve already done my initiation song!”
Francis made his first loan move in 2019 to Almere City FC, seeking regular playing time to help him develop as a player and it has sure payed off! During his loan spell, his impressive performances and adaptability gained a lot of attention from clubs around the world. Ed also came through the ranks at Wolves before making 20 appearances in the EFL for Harrogate Town. Notts County saw a lot of potential in Francis over the years and signed the midfielder in August 2021.
The midfielder represented the magpies many times but went out on loan to Gateshead in the 22/23 season to allow him to get more game time. At Notts County, Ed trained and played with former Gateshead players Cedwyn Scott and Macaulay Langstaff. During his time at Gateshead, the fans were intrigued with his good understanding of the game and his passing abilities. Ed also showed his defensive abilities for Gateshead, showing his quality tackling ability and his ability to break up opposition play.
Ian had a few positive words to say about Francis, “He brings a real professionalism and has a great understanding of the game. A great lad, willing to learn!”
“This is a great place for Ed to develop and he’s a very selfless individual, always wanting the team to do well and win games. A lot of work he does is for the team and the group of lads. Francis fits into our structure very well so I’m glad we were able to make a deal with him and sign him ahead of the new season.”
“As a club we’ve worked our hardest to get Ed back to Gateshead International Stadium, the recruitment has went up another level. After his loan last season, me and the gaffer knew we wanted to bring him back” said Ian.
Signing subject to NL and FA approval.
Welcome Back, Francis!
Photo: Ian Kelsey
