Joining straight from school as an apprentice, Gage was an unused substitute aged just 16 in his first year at the club, later making his league debut a few days after his 17th birthday.
Although a midfield player, Gage was primarily used in a full back role as Wimbledon's "Crazy Gang", managed by Dave Bassett, rose through the divisions to the top flight in only four years.
Gage joined up once more with old boss Dave Bassett, and after scoring on his United debut, helped the team rise from bottom of the table to a 9th-place finish in the last season of the old First Division.
Following Bassett's departure midway through the following season, Gage left to join League Two runaway leaders Preston North End.
Injuries once again took their toll, limiting Gage's appearances, and he retired from professional football at Christmas 1999, cancelling his contract.