Tynesiders hit by Gate setback

11/03/2010, by Jeff Bowron

Gateshead captain and inspirational midfielder Kris Gate could be out for the rest of the season following a scan on his thigh injury.

The 25 year old joined Gateshead in 2007 following his release from hometown club Newcastle United and has played a key role in Gateshead's rise to the Blue Square Premier.

Gate picked up the injury in the FA Trophy replay defeat against Barrow on February 9th and then, after a short break, turned out in the win over Altrincham at the International Stadium.

Substituted in the second half, Gate saw the injury take a turn for the worse during training and, after missing the games at Tamworth and Histon, the worst fears have been confirmed.

There is a bad tear in the thigh muscle and some fibre has snapped forcing the Geordie playmaker to be sidelined for six weeks.

"I am devastated because I wanted to play my part in the survival bid but it doesn't look like that will now be the case," said Gate.

"There is a chance I could be back for the last week but that is if everything goes well and you can often have a setback with an injury.

"The lads will have to do it without me and I know they are capable - and desperate - to Keep Gateshead in the Blue Square Premier."

Gate has made 133 appearances and scored 13 goals during his three years at the International Stadium and will be a big miss.

Gateshead are working hard to bring in a central midfield player on an emergency loan and assistant manager Jeff Wrightson has urged his side to overcome this latest setback.

"Gate has been a big player for us since he joined the club," said Wrightson "but we will have to make sure we get the job done without him.

"Injuries are part and parcel in football and while it is a massive blow for the club and the individual it is not something we can dwell on.

"Gate has been inspirational and has led by example but we have huge games between now and the end of the season and other leaders have to come to the fore."

Captain Kris Gate in action against Luton Town at Kenilworth Road earlier in the season.