Gateshead Hand Clark The Full-Time Manager's Job

Clark agreed to hold the fort while the Heed decided the way forward.

But even before taking charge of a game, they have give their former defender the nod to stay on.

Blyth's Ian Watson will be his number two. Former Newcastle United centre-back Mike Williamson will be part of Clark's coaching team as player coach

Gateshead have been searching for a new manager since Steve Watson left to take over at York City last week.

Clark explained last week that Watson gave the players an emotional parting message as he said goodbye.

“It was a very difficult day for everyone,” said the new boss.

“We spoke to Steve. He told us that we have done fantastically well as a group of players and that we deserve to be where we are at this point in the season.

“He told us we can go on to achieve what we want to achieve this year. That means a lot to everyone.”

Clark added: “It always hard when a manager leaves during the season.

“But for older pros it’s not a totally new experience - it’s happened before to most of us so now we have got to work hard and move forward.

“York are a big club and it’s a great project for him. We wish them both every bit of luck at their new club.”