Armstrong can feel the big upturn in outlook

ALUN Armstrong has admitted Gateshead are ‘in a far healthier place’ as they emerge from a difficult summer to prepare for their National League opener at home to Southend United.

- With Mark Carruthers

The former Darlington and Blyth Spartans manager was named as successor to Carl Magnay in June as the Heed reeled from missing out on the playoff places in non-league’s top tier on the final day of last season.

Ironically, it was Southend that pipped Gateshead to a top seven place and kickstarted a summer of departures from the International Stadium.

Former chairman Neil Pinkerton, captain Greg Olley, head of recruitment Luke Clark and key players including Regan Booty and Luke Hannant have all left.

Far from being shrouded in negativity, Armstrong has fostered a far more positive atmosphere within the camp and is relishing the opportunity to lead his hometown club.

He said: “You build up for so long but you're never at the stage you want to be.