Ex-Newcastle United youth opens up on 'shock' of being released and how he's turned career round at Gateshead

The Geordie midfielder was skipper of a Magpies Under-23s side containing the likes of Sean Longstaff and Dan Barlaser before his time with his boyhood club was brought to an end when he was released in the summer of 2018.

He immediately crossed the Tyne to join Gateshead as they belied the off-field issues that threatened their existence to push for a National League play-off place.

However, Hunter had left the International Stadium to join National League North club Blyth Spartans by the time the Heed had been relegated to non-league’s second tier as a punishment for financial irregularities under their former owners.

A one-season stay at Croft Park came to an end when Hunter decided to return to Gateshead earlier this year and he has become a mainstay of Mike Williamson’s starting line-up as the Heed look to push for promotion back to the National League this season.

Speaking after his man of the match performance in Tuesday night’s win over league leaders Gloucester City, Hunter said: “Obviously, it’s hard when you get released by Newcastle, but I feel like I have moved on from that.

“It was a shock to get released and I had played a lot of games, but I feel like I am a better player for what I have been through.

“It’s tough because people don’t see what players have to go through – but I am stronger as a person and as a player.

“I love it here, I love the staff, the squad and the whole club – it feels like home to me.

“I feel like I am getting back towards my best now.

“Now I just want to build on that and continue my good form over the rest of the season.”

Hunter will be looking to extend Gateshead’s unbeaten run to five games against Chester on Saturday.

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