Watson Thrilled As Two Commit The Heed’s Cause

The midfield pair have signed one-year deals and become the tenth and eleventh players to move to the International Stadium this season.

Salkeld began his career at Carlisle United but has since made loan moves to Whitby Town and most recently, Annan Athletic.

The 19-year-old has been on trial since the beginning of pre-season with the Heed and admitted that he is somewhat of a fan of the club and can’t wait to get them back where they belong.

“I’m a local lad from Low Fell and I know a lot about the club,” he told the club’s official website.

“I went down as a supporter to Wembley so I’m really happy to sign here. My family support the club but now I just want to play football and help the club get back where it belongs.
“It’s fair to say I’m a bit of a fan,” he added.

23-year-old Maloney has been training with Gateshead since last season and the former Middlesbrough Under-23 player said he was eager for the season to start after signing on.

He said: “I’m delighted to be here, close to home with a good bunch of lads and at a club who has exciting targets for the season.

“We played a game yesterday which I enjoyed. It was good to be out there on the pitch, we passed it about well and it was good to get some minutes on the pitch.

“Now I just can’t wait to get started and get some league games under my belt.”
Boss Steve Watson watched on as the duo played in a practice game on Thursday and Watson said both players had shown their quality.

“They’ve both done very well in pre-season and are both very fit players,” he said.
“We knew we’d have a look at him [Lewis Maloney] in the summer and he’s come back strong for pre-season.

“In our first practice game on Thursday, Cameron and Lewis were both outstanding. They’ve been training with us and in that time all I’ve tried to do is find a bit more about them and see if they buy into what we’re trying to do.”

He added. “They are both young, hungry and will give us options.”

Gateshead start their National League season away at Maidenhead United on August 4.