Gateshead bring in Scottish defender

Gateshead have brought in Dunfermline Athletic left back Patrick Boyle on an initial six-month loan deal.

The 25-year-old made 21 appearances in the SPL last season including games against Scottish giants Celtic and Rangers.

"Boyle comes highly recommended and is a player who can also provide cover for the left side of midfield," said Heed manager Ian Bogie.

"As well as playing in the top flight of Scottish football he had an outstanding period at Partick Thistle before joining Dunfermline

"He will add further experience to the back line and give it a natural balance.

"The initial agreement is for a six-month loan spell but if he impresses we will look to make the deal permanent."

Glaswegian Boyle is no stranger to English football having spent three of his formative years at Everton.

During his time at Goodison Park he played three games on loan in the Championship for Norwich City in 2006.

Two years later the Scotland U.19 international spent three months at Crewe Alexandra where he played 19 games for the Cheshire club.

Boyle returned north of the border following his release from Everton to help Dumbarton win the Third Division championship.

A move to Partick Thistle on a two-year contract followed and while at Firhill he had a brief spell on loan at Clyde.

After playing 46 games for the Jags he joined Dunfermline Athletic in the summer of 2011 and then Gateshead on loan a year later.

Boyle will make his debut in Saturday's pre-season friendly at Spennymoor if his international clearance comes through and will then get to know his new team-mates during the three day training camp in the Lake District.

Patrick Boyle in action for Partick Thistle.