Three pre-season friendlies confirmed

Three pre-season friendlies have been confirmed, with another three close to being finalised.

Gateshead will entertain a Sunderland XI at the International Stadium, the week before the start of the 2012/13 Blue square Bet Premier season.

Ian Bogie's side host the Black Cats on Saturday 4th August in a 3pm kick-off at the International stadium.

The Tynesiders will travel to Blyth Spartans, relegated from the Conference North last season, on Saturday 21st July.

The Spartans, now managed by former Gateshead manager Tommy Cassidy, were knocked out of the FA Cup by Gateshead at Croft Park last season.

The third confirmed friendly is at FA Vase winners Dunston UTS, though the midweek date in July has yet to be finalised.

The other four warm up games will be against professional opposition, three of whom are expected to be at home.

Trials meanwhile will take place over three days next week to select 10 YTS apprentices for the coming season.