Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has hailed the work former Magpies defender Mike Williamson has done at near neighbours Gateshead FC. 'Iron Mike' as he's known to both sets of supporters, helped guide the Heed back to the National League last season with a historic National League North title under his belt, before ensuring survival this season and set up a date with destiny at Wembley this weekend.
The Tynesiders take on FC Halifax Town for the FA Trophy on Sunday in a one off game for national silverware. The Heed have reached the final against the odds, plagued by injuries and not helped by a number of their players that are cup tied.
Gateshead have a number of former Newcastle United youngsters in their squad - Adam Campbell, Owen Bailey and Greg Olley to name just a few - while Rob Elliot is also working behind the scenes at the International Stadium. The two clubs are separated by just over two miles but there's hope from both parties that they can strengthen the bond between both clubs.
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Howe was left impressed by the National League side when they faced each other in a behind closed doors friendly in pre-season, with the Heed taking young Magpies shot stopper Dan Langley on loan for the first half of the season.
"Definitely wish them well," Howe told reporters when asked about Gateshead at Wembley this weekend. "Mike was in here recently getting treatment on a knee problem which looked nasty at the time.
"We played against them in pre-season and I thought they were a good team. Mike deserves huge credit for what he's done because it's tough at that level with limited resources. Many congratulations to them and I hope they go on and win it."
You need look no further than Paul Dummett in the current Newcastle first-team squad to see just how beneficial a loan spell can be to both young players and clubs like Gateshead. Dummett was a standout performer for the Heed during the 2011/12 season before moving to St. Mirren and then forcing his way into the Toon first-team.
Howe said: "I've always believed in the links locally, they're so important. So we can help them, they can help us in different ways.
"I think it helps everyone in the local community if you can have good strong relationships with the clubs in and around us."
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