Pools have today handed a professional contract to Youth Team player Jonathan Rowell.

The 18-year-old joined Pools back in January 2006 initially on trial, before signing a scholarship with the Club just two months later.

And, after impressing during his first season and a half with the Youth Team, the Club have been keen to snap him up on professional terms.

Rowell came to Pools after being released by Newcastle United at Under 16 level and both Paul Stephenson and Terry Mitchell were quick to bring him to the Club after having worked with him in the past.

The skilful central midfielder is highly rated at the Club and, having impressed for both the Youth and Reserve Teams over the past year, he will now make his push for the First Team.