Sunderland striker, 20, leaves club during January transfer window

Academy Manager, Robin Nicholls said: “Joining Blyth represents a fantastic opportunity for Harry to challenge himself at a good level of football. He has been a consistent goal-scorer at various Academy levels and it will be a good development challenge to see if he can continue that trend in the National League North.”

Gardiner took his opportunity in the under-21s side following an ankle injury to fellow forward Max Thompson last season and was shortlisted for the Premier League 2 Player of the Month award in February.

Gardiner caught the eye several times last campaign for Sunderland’s under-21 side under Graeme Murty and netted twice in a memorable 4-1 win against Stoke City with head coach Tony Mowbray there to watch the action.

Sunderland’s first team will play Newcastle United in the FA Cup third round at the Stadium of Light on Saturday, in what will be the first Wear-Tyne rivalry in over eight years. Michael Beale’s squad won their previous Championship encounter 2-0 against Preston North End.

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