FORMER Grimsby Town striker Richard Brodie has spoken of his delight after sealing a move to hometown club Gateshead.
The 25-year-old, who had an unsuccessful loan spell at Blundell Park earlier this season, will officially join the Heed on July 1 when his contract with Crawley expires.
"I've been away for a few years and it's nice to be back home," he told The Shields Gazette.
"I'm playing for my hometown club and I'm still only 25.
"I grew up in Gateshead, went to school in Gateshead and played in school finals at the International Stadium.
"There's a lot of distractions when you're away, you meet other people and it's easy to focus on other things rather than football.
"I don't mind admitting I found it hard being away from home at times, being lonely, and got swayed by distractions.
"But it's all about learning from these things, and they can make you a better person and a footballer.
"I've been back home six weeks and I've realised how much I've missed my friends and family.
"I spoke to a number of clubs but Gateshead have always been there in the background."
He continued: "Looking at the squad, I think there's an outstanding chance we can make the play-offs.
"The thing for me now is to get scoring goals and give the town and fans something to cheer about.
"I want to show people, the club, and just as importantly myself what I can do.
"My record in the Conference shows I can play at this level."
