Hartlepool United are delighted to confirm the appointment of Nicky Featherstone as the Club’s permanent manager, following a highly impressive period in interim charge.
Featherstone has overseen a significant upturn in performances and results since stepping into the dugout in October.
Working alongside Elliott Dickman and Adam Smith, who will both remain part of the First Team coaching staff, he has guided Pools to a seven-match unbeaten run in the Enterprise National League, recording four wins and three draws.
During that spell, he brought renewed confidence to the squad. His appointment represents an important step in the Club’s football strategy and reflects the direction being shaped across the First Team and football operations.
Featherstone will take charge of Pools until the end of the season, with a Club option to extend following a review of performance.
The former midfielder has been held as a Club legend with more than 450 appearances across an 11-year spell at the Prestige Group Stadium, which saw promotion to the EFL in 2021.
Nicky Featherstone, Manager, said: “It is a tremendous honour to be appointed manager of this football club. Pools means a huge amount to me. I care deeply about this Club, about the people here and about what it represents.
“During my interim period in charge, the players and staff have been first class and the supporters have backed us brilliantly as we tried to steady things and build some momentum. Their support has made a massive difference and I can’t thank them enough.
“As a staff and as a group, we want to keep pushing on. We want to build something the town can be proud of. If we keep our standards high and continue improving, we can give ourselves every chance of having a strong season while also putting firm foundations in place for the longer term.”
Joe Monks, Head of Football Operations, said: “We conducted a thorough process and spoke to a wide range of candidates from the English football pyramid including experienced EFL managers but Nicky’s leadership and understanding of the Club made him the standout choice.
“Since taking over on an interim basis he has worked hard to create a clear identity of how he wants the team to play. His influence can be seen within the playing squad, as well as the uplift in results.
“Nicky is a Club legend with a genuine connection to our supporters. Alongside Elliott the coaching standards have been very positive at Maiden Castle. We are confident he is the right person to lead the next phase of our football development and take this team forward in a way that reflects the ambition of the Club and its supporters.”
