EFL confirm Gateshead will NOT be permitted to play in the National League play-offs – just TWO days before fixture – after ‘failing to attain a security of tenure’ of their stadium

The EFL confirmed on Sunday that Gateshead will be pulled out of this years National League play-offs, after they failed to meet the ‘relevant qualifying criteria to enable a club to be a member of the EFL.’

The Tynesiders had finished sixth in the Vanarama National League, qualifying for a spot in the play-offs. They were due to take on Solihull Moors on Tuesday in the opening round of the play-offs, but the game has now been cancelled. 

The EFL confirmed that the decision came in relation to Gateshead’s failure to procure a ’10-year security tenure’ on their ground, the Gateshead International Stadium.

A statement from the governing body read:  ‘Gateshead Football Club will not be permitted by the National League to participate in this season’s Play-Offs as the terms of the Club’s occupation at the Gateshead International Stadium, owned by the Borough Council of Gateshead, does not meet the relevant qualifying criteria to enable the Club to become a Member of the EFL.

‘All other Clubs permitted to play in the National League play-offs adhered to the requirements as set out in EFL Regulations.

‘Despite the League working with Gateshead throughout last season and again in recent months, the Club has been unable to attain security of tenure to play matches at its Stadium for a minimum of 10 seasons.

‘All National League Clubs are required to apply annually to the EFL should they wish to be eligible for promotion, which Gateshead did alongside other Clubs by the 30 November deadline. Working with the EFL, Clubs then had until 1 March to ensure that all the relevant criteria of EFL Regulations were met.

‘As Gateshead failed to meet the security of tenure requirement, the EFL rejected its application. The Club appealed the League’s decision claiming that it was irrational or unreasonable, but that appeal has now been rejected after consideration by an independent Arbitrator.’

Gateshead have also issued a statement expressing their ‘extreme disappointment’ over the decision made by the EFL.

‘Gateshead Football Club are extremely disappointed to find ourselves in the position as outlined in the statements released by the EFL and the National League. Rest assured we will continue to challenge both on their decisions, and we will endeavour to ensure that footballing matters are decided on the pitch. 

‘Therefore, our players and staff remain 100 per cent focused on the task in hand, and we wish to go on record to express our gratitude to the National League for supporting our challenge to the EFL.

‘Due to the legality of this matter, no further comments will be made by Gateshead FC until appropriate.’ 

More to follow…