Mulligan has spent his entire career in the Football League

Gateshead have signed former Republic of Ireland Under-21 international Gary Mulligan on an initial five-month deal.

The 25-year-old striker scored 16 goals in 107 games for Gillingham before moving to Northampton in 2009, who released him at the end of last season.

Manager Ian Bogie said: "He makes clever runs, holds the ball up well and leads the line.

"Hopefully he will also score goals, especially as this is the first time he plied his trade in non-league."

Bogie added: "He is here initially until the end of December but if he does well the contract will be extended - and I believe he will prove to be a good signing for the club."

Following his release from Northampton after just nine appearances, former Wolverhampton Wanderers man Mulligan spent time on trial at League Two side Cheltenham Town.

606: DEBATE How will Gateshead fare this season?

Meanwhile Gateshead boss Bogie is confident his squad can cope with the absence of goalkeeper Paul Farman, defender James Curtis and striker Jon Shaw ahead of next week's visit of Kettering Town.

The Tynesiders have taken on a string of trialists, including former Barrow player Tim Deasy who has been handed a three-month short-term deal, and Bogie has reassured fans the squad is able to compete.

"The injuries to Farman, Curtis and Shaw are frustrating but part and parcel of football," added Bogie.

"We have a large, full-time squad and should be able to cope."

Goalkeeper Farman is set for a scan on his knee on Monday, while Curtis (metatarsal) and Shaw (calf tear) hope to return later in the month.

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