Hartlepool United are pleased to announce the signing of former Newcastle United left-back Matthew Bondswell with immediate effect.

The 22-year-old came through the ranks at Nottingham Forest before enjoying three years in Germany with RB Leipzig, alongside a loan move to Holland with Dordrecht.

With 19 caps at youth level for England, Bondswell joined Newcastle in 2021 and spent three years with the Magpies, while also moving to Shrewsbury Town and Newport County on loan.

He played 32 games in League Two last season as the Welsh outfit finished 18th in the table.

Bondswell will wear the number 33 shirt at the Prestige Group Stadium and will be eligible for Saturday’s fixture at home to Eastleigh, subject to league approval.

Upon joining Pools, Bondswell stated:

“I’m really happy to be here. I’ve trained with the squad over the last few weeks and it’s been a great experience. I can’t wait to get back playing and helping the team pick up as many points as possible. I’m looking forward to Saturday’s game and seeing the fans for the first time.”

Hartlepool United manager, Lennie Lawrence, added:

“Matty looks good in training and he’s played a number of games in League Two. As well as David Ferguson is doing, it provides him with some competition and hopefully they can push each other on. We’re really looking forward to seeing what he can do here.”