Gateshead have become the latest National League side to confirm their retained list, following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season and days after becoming manager-less once again.
The Heed confirmed the exit of manager Rob Elliot prior to the announcement of the retained list – with him now already moving on to fellow National League side Carlisle United, replacing Mark Hughes.
Elliot successfully guided the club to safety, earning nine wins after returning to the club and managing to clinch an unlikely survival with games to spare.
However, with the club now preparing for another managerial change, attention turns towards the summer transfer window and the decisions regarding their current squad.
Gateshead captain set for talks
Gateshead underwent a lengthy recruitment drive in early 2026, following the return of Elliot as manager, bringing in almost an entirely new starting line-up for the remainder of the season.
The vast majority of those remain under contract or had one-year options in the club’s favour, which have already been extended.
However, one player that isn’t currently contracted for next season is captain Kenton Richardson – and as per the retained list, an update regarding his future has now been confirmed.
The 26-year-old is one of six players that have been offered a new contract by the National League outfit – along with the likes of Harry Chapman and Louis Storey.
Meanwhile, five players were let go including former Lincoln City defender Max Melbourne.
Why should retaining Richardson be a priority?
Unlike the vast majority of players in the squad, Richardson is one of Gateshead’s longest-serving players, having been with the club since the summer of 2023.
During this time, the 26-year-old has been a regular feature for the Heed – being apart of the side that won the FA Trophy at Wembley Stadium during his debut campaign.
Injuries impacted his 2024/25 campaign, though he recovered to feature 35 times across all competitions for Gateshead last season, including a goal against FC Halifax Town on route to survival.
With the club now undergoing another managerial change, it is integral that they try and keep ahold of the individuals that know the club.
Richardson is the captain, thus suggesting he already has the respect of his fellow players and is a big part of the dressing room. Plus, his experience and knowledge of the club and players would allow for a new manager to have an easier pathway into the side – rather starting fresh with a squad that don’t necessarily have the experience that someone like Richardson has.
