Gateshead pulled off a miraculous escape from almost-certain relegation in the National League this season, and attention can now shift onto preparations for the next campaign.
Under the guidance of returning manager Rob Elliot, the club transitioned from 11 points off safety and bottom of the division, to clinching their survival with three games to spare.
This weekend will see Gateshead take on Altrincham, knowing victory could allow them to finish as high as 16th in the table.
Following the game, their 2025/26 season will officially end – and it appears as though talks are beginning to take place with key members of the squad ahead of the next campaign.
Gateshead star confirms contract talks
Since Elliot’s return, Gateshead have signed a lot of new players – with key individuals such as Keaton Ward, Sam Bowen, Brad Nicholson and goalkeeper Adam Desbois all making significant impacts in the North East.
However, players are pre-existing at the club who have also played their part, and captain Kenton Richardson is no exception.
The 26-year-old has recaptured his form from the 2023/24 season, making 32 appearances so far this season in the National League and leading his men to an unexpected survival.
A potential concern for the Heed is that Richardson’s existing deal is set to expire in the coming weeks, but a report from journalist Mark Carruthers has confirmed that all parties are in talks over a new contract with the club.
Speaking with the Sunderland Echo, Richardson stated…
“I am currently in talks with the club. I love it here, there’s no secret about that. It feels like home to me and I’ve got a great relationship with the staff, my team-mates, the coaches and the fans.
“It’s something I enjoy, I love being here and talks are ongoing so hopefully we can get something sorted as soon as possible.”
Richardson as it stands has played his final game for Gateshead, with the defender currently sidelined through injury.
How key would a new deal for Richardson be?
In Non-League football, players seemingly move on at least once every two seasons – but in Richardson’s case, he’s been with Gateshead for almost four years.
Within that period, he helped his side to reach the play-off places before being banned from competing due to a stadium issue and was part of their FA Trophy-winning side back in 2024, winning at Wembley Stadium on penalties.
One year later, Richardson was named as Gateshead captain, where he continues to leave a positive impression on the football club and its supporters.
Leaders in the dressing room are essential for any football club and with the momentum that Gateshead likely have following their survival, individuals like Richardson are integral to rebuilding.
As recently as 2024, Richardson was the subject of interest from several EFL sides including Barnsley and Peterborough United, further highlighting his true potential and why having a player of his calibre could be key for Elliot’s men next season.
Since Valentine’s Day (the day Gateshead’s form started), only York City, Rochdale and Southend United have picked up more points than the Heed – suggesting a potential play-off push isn’t out of the question next season, and retaining a key asset like Richardson will certainly boost their beliefs.
