United make the long trip to Gateshead on Friday in preparation to face the Heed at the International Stadium on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).
Gateshead lie in 11th place in the National League after opening their season with a 2-1 defeat away to Woking but following that up with a 1-0 win over Guiseley at home.
The last time Gateshead and United faced each other, United came out winners in a 3-1 win at Plainmoor thanks to goals from David Fitzpatrick, Paul Rooney, and Brett Williams.
Gatehead finished last season in 8th place, missing out on a play-off spot when the possibility looked likely heading into the final third of the season.
Gateshead have made fourteen signings during the close season. The Yellow Army will know midfielder Russell Penn very well after his numerous starts for opposition teams in the past. Fellow midfielder Robbie Tinkler featured for North Ferriby last season and also joined in the summer.
United have been hit by the loss of defender Josh Gowling who will be out for a couple of weeks. The Club continues to monitor his recovery from an injury he sustained in a pre-season match against Plymouth Parkway.
“There is nothing major [wrong with Gowling], just a mild knee issue” said Nicholson. “He’ll be available again in the next week or two.
Liam Davis’s recovery from an issue caused from wearing orthotics may be close to a conclusion with the Gaffer reporting that he is close to returning to action. Jordan Lee misses out after being taken ill on Wednesday morning. You can find out more about that story here.
“We’ve only one point on the board and you always want more but in terms of the work rate, the character, the discipline of the team – I have been very happy,” added Nicholson.
“They [Gateshead] are a good side. Physical, more direct than the last two teams we have played.
“It is a long way for us to travel so we just need to make sure that physically we are prepared. Mentally, the lads know what they are going into and then we pick a team we feel will best cope with the week that we have had and the week we are going into.
“I expect my squad and my team to go out there and give a good account of themselves.”
Gateshead FC Vs Torquay United | 12/08/17 | 3pm Kick-Off
The International Stadium
Nielson Road
Gateshead
Tyne and Wear
NE10 0EF
Ticket Prices: Adult £15 | Concession £8 | 16/17-year-old/Student £5 | U16 £3
Call Gateshead FC: 0191 478 3883
Email Gateshead: [email protected]