Alex Gilliead

Alex Nicholas Gilliead (born 11 February 1996) is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward or a winger for Bradford City. He has represented England at under-16, under-17, under-18, and under-20 levels.

Club Career

Newcastle United

Born in Shotley Bridge, County Durham, Gilliead was offered a trial by Newcastle United in 2011, after he was first noticed playing for Swalwell Juniors. He signed scholarship terms in the summer of 2012, before signing a three-year professional contract with the club on 4 July 2013. Gilliead signed a new two-and-a-half-year contract on 28 January 2016 to keep him at the club until 30 June 2018, with the option of a further year.

Loan to Carlisle United

On 14 September 2015, Gilliead joined League Two club Carlisle United on a one-month youth loan. He made his professional debut five days later in a 2–2 draw with York City, assisting both of Carlisle's goals. Gilliead's loan was extended until the end of 2015–16, having made five appearances during his initial loan spell. He followed up his loan extension by scoring his first professional goal two days later in a 1–0 win at home to Exeter City. Gilliead completed the loan spell with 41 appearances and five goals.

Loan to Luton Town

On 31 August 2016, Gilliead joined League Two club Luton Town on loan until 7 January 2017. He debuted as an 85th-minute substitute in a 2–1 defeat at home to Grimsby Town on 10 September. Gilliead scored his first goal for Luton in a 2–0 win at home to West Bromwich Albion U21 in the EFL Trophy on 4 October. He later scored his first league goal for the club in a 3–1 win at home to Barnet on 31 December. Gilliead scored two goals in 21 appearances and returned to Newcastle following the expiration of his loan spell.

Loan to Bradford City

On 12 January 2017, Gilliead signed for League One club Bradford City on loan until the end of 2016–17.