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Carl Magnay

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Gateshead sign Ex Chelsea defender

Gateshead have today clinched the signing of 23-year-old central defender Carl Magnay on a contract until the end of the season.

Gateshead-born Magnay has spent the last four years at Premier League giants Chelsea where he was a regular in the Blues reserve side.

During his time at Stamford Bridge the Northern Ireland U.21 international spent loan spells at Milton Keynes Dons and Northampton Town.

Magnay's one international cap came against Portugal in August 2009.

On his release from Chelsea Magnay returned to his Tyneside roots and has impressed during a two game trial at hometown club Gateshead,.

The cultured defender played in the reserves Durham Challenge Cup win at Norton & Stockton Ancients and Wednesday's defeat at home to Hartlepool United.

"Magnay has looked good in training and he has done well in the two reserve games he has played," said Gateshead manager Ian Bogie.

"He is comfortable on the ball and is an accomplished defender who has learnt his trade at one of the top clubs in the country.

"We needed to bring in a central defender following the release of Ewan Moyes and Magnay fits the bill.

"He is a Gateshead lad who will be keen to impress. He had his injury problems during his time at Chelsea but is a player with a good pedigree.

"After bringing in Liam Hatch and Jamie Chandler from Darlington in the transfer window Magnay is another good addition to the squad."

Gateshead remain in the hunt for a play-off spot in the Blue Square Bet Premier and are in the last 16 of the Trophy.

"We are fighting to reach Wembley on two fronts," added Bogie "we have strengthened the squad this month and there is still everything to play for."

By Jeff Bowron