Ed Francis seeks more playing time with fellow National League side Gateshead

Notts County midfielder Ed Francis has officially joined Gateshead, a fellow National League team, for the remainder of the season, as confirmed by the club. The 23-year-old, who signed from Harrogate in 2021, has played in just 13 games for the Magpies this season, and only featured once in the past 11 league games.

Since John Bostock's arrival in December 2022, Francis has been relegated to a lower spot in the midfield hierarchy. In his pursuit for more regular playing time, Francis has moved to Gateshead to assist Mike Williamson's team in their bid for National League survival.

Francis' loan deal with Gateshead provides him with an opportunity to contribute to a team that is fighting for their league position. By playing more frequently, he can further develop his skills as a midfielder and increase his chances of being a valuable player for his team in the future.

Notts County head coach Luke Williams said: "Ed has applied himself brilliantly every single day. He's been starved of opportunity for one reason or another, but he has tremendous qualities both as a player and person.

"I've worked with players who you just want to see go because they don't contribute positively to the group. That's not Ed at all.

"But he's expressed a need for more regular football, and I've reluctantly supported that.

"I would much rather have Ed here than send him somewhere that didn't suit him just to get him out of the building.

"Gateshead are a club I like a lot, with a brilliant manager and staff, as well as a style of play that suits Ed's game. It's the right thing to do, and we wish him well."

Ed Francis is now eligible to play for Gateshead in their upcoming match against Chesterfield at the Gateshead International Stadium. He will be playing alongside Quevin Castro, a former Notts loanee who also joined the club in January following the end of his loan spell at Meadow Lane. The 21-year-old is expected to be a valuable addition to the team.

With Francis' arrival, Gateshead's midfield will be strengthened, and his partnership with Castro will provide the team with a stronger attacking force. The two players will undoubtedly contribute to Gateshead's efforts to secure their National League survival, and their presence on the pitch will be welcomed by their teammates and fans alike.

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