Gateshead Football Club is delighted to confirm the appointment of Lee Cattermole as First-Team Manager.
Cattermole will take charge with immediate effect ahead of the 2026/27 season, signing a two-year contract to remain at Gateshead until 2028.
The 38-year-old joins the club in his first role in senior management having gained his UEFA A licence and previously undertaking coaching roles with Bristol Rovers, Burnley, Middlesbrough and The Northern Irish FA.
Highly regarded as a defensive midfielder during his playing career, Cattermole played 272 games in the Premier League after progressing through the academy system to the first team at Middlesbrough, before playing in England’s top flight for Wigan Athletic and Sunderland.
“I am delighted that Lee will begin his managerial career at Gateshead,” said Interim Chairman, Graham Wood.
“On returning to the role of Chairman, it was clear that my immediate priority was to appoint a First-Team Manager.
“Of the applicants already assembled, Lee was the standout candidate and I decided there was no need to look further.
“Following meetings with Lee and his agent, I am pleased to confirm that we have agreed terms and that Lee will commence his duties immediately.
“Lee brings with him the experience gained from over 250 games in the Premier League, where he worked with some of the most respected managers in world football, including Gareth Southgate and Martin O’Neill.”
Interim Chairman, Graham Wood, and Lee Cattermole.
Cattermole added: “It’s something I’m really excited about. The opportunity to get a crack at first-team management – especially at Gateshead as well. I think you’ve proven over the years that you’ve given that platform to first time managers.
“When you go into coaching or management, you’ve got to decide where you feel you’re going to be best suited, and I’ve been clear that I want to be a manager. It’s something I’ve made clear from the outset that I want to do, and it’s here now, and I’m excited for the challenge.
“My vision for the team is going to take time, it’s not going to be quick. I’ll have clear expectations with the group in terms of the demands of being a professional footballer and how to move forward in the game.
“How I’ll carry myself as a manager here will be consistent and the players will see that, they’ll feel that and I’m sure they’ll learn from that.
“We’ve talked a lot about the identity of Gateshead over the years and I want to learn about that and understand what we really want to keep hold of and what’s the core of it, and then where I feel we can add myself to that and hopefully develop it further.
“I’m not coming in and saying it’s all this way or that way – let’s build something together.”
