The 22-year-old striker amassed 61 goals and 15 assists in 43 games for Birtley Town last season as they secured promotion to Northern League Division One for the first time in their history.
And his reward this week was to be offered a contract with the Tyneside club who, under boss Mike Williamson, helped launch the career of last season’s National League top goal scorer, Macaulay Langstaff.
Clutched from Wearside League side Gates-head Leam Rangers, Rutledge enjoyed a ground-breaking season with the Hoops last term and was named the BBC Newcastle Player of the Year at the Ebac Northern Football League awards.
“I’m absolutely buzzing, very excited to start,” said the Gates-head-born forward on his new deal with the Heed.
“There’s been a lot of talking back and forward between us and the club so it’s nice to finally get it over the line.
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