Armstrong replaces Carl Magnay, who resigned after Gateshead’s disappointing end to the season meant they missed out on a place in the National League play-offs.
It’s a fine job for Armstrong, who has been out of work since his Darlington exit in September, 2023. Armstrong, who had a successful spell in charge of Blyth before his time with Quakers, made Gateshead’s final shortlist of six candidates before impressing in further interviews with the club’s hierarchy.
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Gateshead chairman Bernard McWilliams said: “After pulling together a shortlist we have then taken the last few days to quickly interview those selected. I must say this, it was a very difficult decision as all those who applied and ultimately interviewed were of a very high standard.
“Only one person could be successful however, so with that said, I’m delighted to welcome Alun to the club as our new first-team manager.
“The last few weeks have seen quite a few changes at the club, and with Alun in position I feel we can begin rebuilding and bring a re-invigorated squad together ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.
“One thing that was at the centre of this process is that we are one club – ‘wor club’ – and with that said it is imperative that we re-connect through the manager and the players to our fans and our community, and Alun fully supports this.”
Armstrong, who made 33 appearances for Boro during his playing career and scored nine goals, said: “I see it as a challenge, and it’s something I’m really excited by.
“I want to bring some of the identity back to this club that I think it used to have. First and foremost, I want lads to work extremely hard for the team and that’s the biggest thing, but on top of that we want to be exciting and scoring goals.
“At the end of the day fans pay money to see goals, it’s an entertainment business, and we want to see the ball in the back of the net as much as we possibly can.
“I know it’s going to be a tough one, but no stone will be left for me to try and get this battle done and hopefully get to where we want to be.”
