Welling’s National League South survival prospects have been dealt a blow after Kain Adom moved to National League Gateshead on Friday.

The 22-year-old has been Welling’s best player this season, scoring nine goals in 27 games, but he heads to the north east on a free transfer having only signed non-contract terms with the Wings.

It’s a major blow for Welling boss Danny Bloor, whose side sit nine points adrift of safety in the National League South relegation zone.

Bloor said: “We’re bitterly disappointed to lose Kain, but we’ve all seen how he’s developed since he joined us.

“There was a lot of interest from clubs in our league, but he and his father assured us that he would not leave Welling United for a club in this league and they were true to their word.

“When the opportunity arose to go full-time with Gateshead, he decided to take it. It’s a massive life change for him, he’s leaving the area and he’s showing a lot of courage to make this decision.

“We are disappointed to lose him, but we must be very proud of helping to develop him into the player he’s become. We wish him all the very best.”

Adom, who joined Welling from Hanwell Town, said: “The move has happened so fast, but I can’t wait to prove that I can play at this level.

“In the first half of the season, I got myself a few goals and I want to replicate this for Gateshead.

“I can’t wait to get on the pitch, prove what I can do, and try to impress the gaffer and the boys.”

Gateshead boss Rob Elliot said: “Kain is someone I’ve watched for a little bit now, and he’s a really exciting prospect.

“He’s a bit raw coming from the league below, and he came from the league below that beforehand, but you can really see the potential he’s got.”

Adom has signed a deal with Gateshead until the end of the 2024/25 season.

Welling’s scheduled National League South home game with Truro this Saturday was postponed on Friday due to a frozen pitch at Park View Road.