Ex-Harrogate Town defender wastes little time in finding new cub

The 23-year-old left-back was released by Simon Weaver last month after just a single season at Wetherby Road and has now agreed a one-year deal with National League North outfit Gateshead.

“I’ve signed for the up and coming season at Gateshead and it’s one I am really looking forward to,” Smith said.

“After speaking to Mike [Williamson] and Ian [Watson] about the plans they have got in place for this season, the direction that the club is going, and not to mention having one of the best years of football up at Gateshead, it’s one I couldn’t really turndown.

“So, I am really looking forward to it, this season is going to be a big season and I can’t wait to get back playing in front of the Heed faithful.”

Smith’s move sees him re-join Gateshead four years after his first spell at the club.

Reflecting on his decision not to offer the former Barnsley, Northampton Town and Chesterfield man a new contract at Harrogate, Weaver said: “George started well here. When he’s on it, he’s a brilliant left-back, but he didn’t quite nail down the position.

“Warren [Burrell] came in, was performing and we took off as a team. That’s why I stuck with him over George. It’s just about a manager’s opinion.”