Ryan Noble leaves Burnley and signs for Gateshead

Ryan Noble in action against Yeovil Town on his debut

Noble had his contract ended by mutual consent, and has joined the Tynesiders, where he joins another former Claret, John Oster, on a deal until the end of the season.

The former Sunderland frontman arrived in the summer as a free agent, having been released at the Stadium of Light, but only made two brief substitute appearances for Burnley.

He made his league debut in the 2-0 home victory over Yeovil Town in August, and also came off the bench in the Capital One Cup defeat to West Ham United at Turf Moor in late October.

The 22-year-old spent four years at hometown club Sunderland, making five Premier League and one FA Cup appearances.

He also had loan spells at Watford - when Sean Dyche was assistant manager at Vicarage Road, Derby County and Hartlepool United.

However, he played most of his football at Turf Moor in the Development squad, also featuring in the Premier League Under 21 Cup, scoring in the 2-1 win at Crewe in the second round.

Noble also bagged a brace in the 4-1 Lancashire FA Senior Cup win against Morecambe at Turf Moor.

He was on the bench 14 times for the first team in total, but has now moved back to the north east.

Gateshead manager Gary Mills said: “Noble is a goalscorer and a good player.

“He can play down the middle or out wide and will be suited to the way we play.

“His hold up play and movement are good and he’s an excellent signing for the club. It is the perfect time for him and us that he has come to Gateshead.

“He is an exciting player who can now settle down and play regular football at a good level.”