Agony for Gateshead as they are excluded from National League play-offs ending EFL dream
Gateshead have expressed their 'extreme disappointment' after being excluded from the National League play-offs.
The Heed secured sixth position in the National League to earn a chance to compete for a place in the EFL, starting with a play-off tie with Solihull Moors this week.
However that game has now been cancelled with the EFL and National League due to an issue with their stadium's lease.
The club currently play their fixtures at the Gateshead International Stadium - an 11,800 capacity stadium owned by the Borough Council of Gateshead.
EFL rules state that clubs must have a minimum of 10 year' security of tenure to compete in their competitions, something that Gateshead don't have.
Despite applying for permission to secure promotion to the EFL like all other clubs are required to do, their application has been rejected on these grounds.
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As a result, their play-off clash with Solihull Moors - scheduled for just 48 hours' time on Tuesday night - has been cancelled with Solihull being now set to face Halifax Town on Wednesday.
Responding to the news, a statement said: "Gateshead Football Club are extremely disappointed to find ourselves in the position as outlined in statements 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.
"There, our players and staff remain 100% 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.
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"Due to the legality of this matter, no further comments will be made by Gateshead FC until appropriate.”
Gateshead spent 10 years in the National League before being demoted to the National League North in 2019 due to financial irregularities.
Promoted to the National League again in 2022, the Heed will now spend at least one more season outside of the EFL in a huge blow to their ambitions.