Hartlepool United are delighted to announce the signing of Matty Dolan. The 29-year-old midfielder joins the club on a loan deal from Newport County which will automatically convert to a permanent at the start of next season.
Born in Hartlepool, Dolan began his career with north-east neighbours Middlesbrough, captaining their U21s side and enjoying loan spells at Yeovil Town and Bradford City either side of a short-term loan at Victoria Park in 2013.
After leaving Middlesbrough, he joined Bradford on a permanent basis and spent another period on loan with Pools while under contract with the Bantams. A two-year deal at Yeovil followed before he joined his most recent employers, Newport County, in June 2017.
He now joins Keith Curle’s side to permanently link up with his hometown team, and he’ll be the third manager that Dolan has played under. Colin Cooper was at the helm for his first spell, while Paul Murray was in charge in 2014.
Keith Curle added: ‘We’re trying to establish a DNA to the club. Matty brings the quality we have been looking for and it always helps when it’s someone who knows the club with him being a local lad. We know about his versatility and this is a key signing for us.’
Matty Dolan added: 'I am delighted to re-join Hartlepool. This is my town, I know what it means to the people who come week in week out. I am here to help this team climb up the division. From my first training session, I can see there is more then enough to get us out of this situation'.
Dolan will wear the number 16. He will not be available for Sunday's FA Cup tie due to being cup tied. The move is subject to EFL & international clearance.