Hartlepool United can confirm the departure of goalkeeping coach Paul Woolston with immediate effect.

Paul arrived at the Prestige Group Stadium back in January, and now departs the Club to take on a new opportunity in the United Arab Emirates.

We thank Paul for his efforts at the Club and wish him the best of luck for his future.

Adam Smith has been appointed as the Club’s new goalkeeping coach, while continuing to remain as part of the playing squad.

Adam is a UEFA qualified coach and has also made 250 senior appearances during his 13-year career.

“I’m really pleased to take on the new role,” he stated.

“Firstly, on behalf of all the goalkeepers at the Club, we’d like to thank Paul and wish him luck in his new journey.

“Coaching is something that I’ve had on my mind for a while, I coached the goalkeepers while playing at Morecambe and it was a great experience.

“I still intend on playing and pushing Joel and Brad as much as possible. I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.”