National League title-chasers Gateshead have confirmed a significant transfer decision on the eve of their league fixture against manager-less Braintree Town, which could hand them a significant boost in their push for the automatic promotion place.
Carl Magnay’s side currently find themselves fifth in the National League standings as the division approaches the half-way stage, with the club likely using their FA Trophy triumph last season to go a step further in their quest to reach the EFL following a frustrating situation which prevented them from entering the play-offs last season.
Gateshead have a strong squad with plenty of talented individuals such as Regan Booty, Owen Oseni and Callum Whelan but results had begin to dry up, especially with the club winning just one of their last five matches in all competitions.
However, ahead of Saturday’s trip to Braintree, the club have announced a transfer decision which could lead to a significant boost over the coming weeks.
Gateshead confirm McGowan return
As confirmed via a statement on the club’s website, Gateshead have officially recalled playmaker Will McGowan from his loan stint with National League North side Darlington with immediate effect.
McGowan joined Gateshead in pre-season on a free transfer and immediately made his mark on the National League side with his individual performances in friendlies, which also led to him making four fifth-tier appearances under former manager Rob Elliott during the opening weeks of the season.
However, in September McGowan was loaned out to Darlington in a bid to earn regular first-team minutes, rather than keeping himself as an option off the bench and he was left to inherit the benefits that the loan deal provided him.
How did McGowan fare at Darlington?
Since joining the Quakers on loan in September, McGowan made a total of ten league appearances for Steve Watson’s side as they find themselves mid-table, sitting a healthy distance above the relegation zone.
During his time with the sixth-tier side, McGowan scored twice and recorded three further assists, which averaged out at a goal contribution every other game, which will be a welcomed return for Gateshead.
Is McGowan returning a ‘game changer’?
Although McGowan is unlikely to return to Gateshead as an immediate starter, averaging a goal contribution in every other match in the division below will be a huge boost for the club – especially with their recent down-turn in results.
Adding a creative player back into the mix who is full of confidence and belief and has proven that he can deliver for his side is only likely to be a good thing for Gateshead, and could prove to be music to the ears of striker Owen Oseni in his own hunt to push for the division’s Golden Boot award.