Luke Armstrong has left Middlesbrough and linked up with Gateshead ahead of the 2018/19 campaign.  

Confirmation has come from Middlesbrough’s official website this afternoon that Armstrong will be departing the Riverside Stadium on-loan this summer, with Gateshead taking the youngster on board.

The Teessiders moved to sign Armstrong last summer, and after a year of football with the under-23s, the 22-year-old will head out on-loan looking to gain senior experience.

Over the course of the last year, Armstrong scored seven goals for the under-23s, enhancing his reputation at the Riverside Stadium.

He now hopes to impress for Gateshead in the Vanarama National League.

In terms of Boro’s first-team, Tony Pulis is currently preparing his side for the Sky Bet Championship season, which begins in under a month.

Boro finished in fifth last season, but missed out on securing an instant return to the Premier League.

Aden Flint and Paddy McNair have since been added to Boro’s squad, as Pulis looks to reshape he side ahead of another assault on promotion next season in the Championship.

The Verdict

Armstrong’s chance in Boro’s first-team wasn’t likely to come next season, with a loan move looking a good option for the forward.

At 22, it is time that Armstrong earned himself an opportunity in senior football, with Gateshead seemingly willing to offer him that opportunity.

This is shaping up into a huge season for Armstrong.

Middlesbrough fans… Let us know your thoughts!