Gateshead chairman pays tribute to new Dons boss Williamson

Gatesheadchairman Neil Pinkteron praised departingMike Williamsonand his backroom staff for their efforts during their time at the club after he took over atMK Dons.

Williamson, the new head coach atStadium MK, rebuilt the club in 2019, helping them to theNational League Northplay-off semi-finals at the first attempt, before securingpromotionback to the fifth tier last season.

The Heed also reachedWembleylast season, losing out toHalifaxin theFA Trophyfinal.

The 39-year-old takes over in Milton Keynes after the sacking of Graham Alexander on Monday, with his appointment coming just a days later.

Chairman Pinkerton said: “Mike has been a fantastic servant to Gateshead Football Club and agreed to re-join the club, alongside Ian and Chris, at a time when we didn’t have a single contracted player in 2019.

“The success they have brought to our club is testament to them as individuals and as a collective team, of which there are many more.

“An approach from MK Dons - a club in the EFL that was only recently in the Championship - proved too much to turn down and we wish them every success, of which we are sure they will be.”