A warm welcome back to Gary Liddle, who returns to Hartlepool United as Lead Professional Development Phase Coach.
The Pools legend, who needs no introduction to supporters, returns in a coaching capacity having made 364 appearances over three previous playing spells at the club – most notably the 2021 National League Play-Off Final win, which ensured our return to the Football League. In his new role, Liddle will be working closely with academy players and staff, utilising the knowledge and experience gained from 800 appearances across a 22-year playing career to drive the development of future Pools talent.
North East-born, the 39-year old, who is currently in the process of completing his UEFA A Licence, stepped into coaching last season with Whitby Town, before being appointed Manager in October 2024. After announcing his retirement from playing in February 2025, Liddle successfully guided the Seasiders away from relegation to finish a respectable 16th in the Northern Premier League, working with Pools prospects Louis Stephenson, Campbell Darcy, Alfie Steel and Joe Aungiers to do so.
Liddle expressed his happiness for being back at Pools by saying:
“I’m delighted to be coming back to the football club for a fourth spell, this time in a coaching capacity. It’s obviously a club I hold close – a club I love – and I’m really happy to be given the opportunity by Joe and Alex to be here again. When Joe got in touch about the possibility of a position being available, it was obviously something I was really keen to do alongside my current role as Whitby Town manager. I look forward to working with Alex and his staff to continue the excellent ongoing work with nurturing the best young talent the club has, and hopefully guiding those players to become as privileged as I was in playing for this great football club and its fans. I’m looking forward to getting started and seeing everyone again.”
Academy Manager, Alex Cross commented on Gary’s appointment:
“It is great to welcome Gary back to the club and to have him on board with the academy. The players and staff will benefit from his playing experience and knowledge of the club, of which I have no doubt will help aid the development of our young players. With Gary starting out in his coaching career, it seems to be the perfect time for all parties, whilst he combines his role at Whitby Town with coaching our academy players.”
Hartlepool United academy are currently also recruiting for a part time Professional Development Phase coach, to assist Gary and the team. For more information, please contact enquiries@hartlepoolunited.co.uk. Applications for a casual minibus driver (D1 licence necessary) are also welcomed and CV’s should be sent to academy@hartlepoolunited.co.uk.
