By Mark Carruthers
Gateshead have been handed a major boost with the news captain Greg Olley has committed to the club until the end of the 2023/24 season.
The former Newcastle United Academy midfielder has become a firm favourite with the Heed supporters ever since he joined the club in August 2018.
Under former manager Steve Watson, Olley helped Gateshead push for a National League play-off place, despite off-field issues at the club disrupting his first season at the International Stadium.
He remained with the Heed following their enforced demotion into the National League North and has gone on to score 22 goals in 124 appearances for the Tynesiders.
Player-manager Mike Williamson handed Olley the captain’s armband at the start of the season and he has repaid the faith of the former Newcastle defender by leading his side to the top of the National League North table.
After committing his future with a new contract, Olley admitted he had “fallen in love” with Gateshead during his time on the south bank of the Tyne.
He told the club website: “I’ve never felt more at home playing football.”
“As soon as I walked in everything clicked – I love playing my football here.
“I always said once you find somewhere that you’re happy I don’t think you should ever leave that unless something changes, and I’m still very happy.
“I’ve fallen in love with this football club.”
Olley will be in the Gateshead squad that will travel to Alfreton Town on Saturday looking to continue their push for a return to the National League.
