Gateshead FC can confirm the appointment of Rob Elliot as first-team manager with immediate effect, with Alun Armstrong stepping to one side to head up the club’s football development in a re-structure of the club’s footballing staff.
Armstrong will now undertake a new role as our Head of Football Development, linking his role as the lead coach of Gateshead FC Academy’s U19 side with the club’s first team set up, strengthening the previously established pathway from youth football to professional football at Gateshead International Stadium.
Elliot will now return in the role of first-team manager, returning to Tyneside after originally spending a year in charge from October 2023 to October 2024, while Jacob Butterfield remains in place in his dual role as a member of the club’s playing and coaching staff.
Club Chairman, Bernard McWilliams, said: “As always, we will adapt and overcome to put Gateshead Football Club in the best possible position we can. With that said, we can now confirm a re-structure within the club.
“Alun has agreed to step to one side to continue with his role within Gateshead FC Academy and Gateshead College, heading up the development of youth within the club and working on what we have already introduced on that front this season.
Bernard McWilliams
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Alun for the hard work he has put in, within a rather difficult situation.
“We can also confirm with immediate effect the appointment of Rob Elliot as first-team manager, and the board of directors are now looking towards strengthening the squad in order to improve our position and work towards achieving safety in the National League.
“Works are also at an advanced stage on other key appointments as we move to improve the club’s situation, which also includes building our off-field support.
“We continue with our plan to work towards financial stability this year, and we hope to maintain our status as a National League club to allow for the best start for next season and planning to build a team that can compete at the highest level.
“I would like to thank the Heed Army, who have stuck by us, and we now look forward to 2026 and hope that we can rely fully on your support, both home and away.”
Alun Armstrong added: “Over the last month I have had a lot to deal with personally, so after meetings with Bernard and Rob it is in the best interests of myself and the club to step to one side and let Rob take the reins.
“I will continue to help and support him, the players and the club in any way I can to make sure the three-year plan is still achievable.
“I would like to thank everyone from the players to all the staff, volunteers and fans for their work, help and support whilst doing this dual role.
“Let’s stick together and give the lads the best chance to get the job done.”
