Hartlepool United is delighted to announce the signing of versatile defender Max Clark.
The 30-year-old joins Pools on a deal until January, subject to approval, following his departure from League Two side Gillingham.
A versatile full-back who is also comfortable in midfield, Clark began his career in the youth ranks at hometown club Hull City, progressing through the development levels before making his first-team debut in 2017 against Aston Villa.
The 2017-18 campaign proved to be his breakthrough season, with Clark making 30 appearances in all competitions and establishing himself as an important member of the Tigers squad under Russian manager Leonid Slutsky.
During his time at Hull, he also enjoyed a loan spell at Cambridge United, where he made his professional debut against Bristol City and later scored his first senior goal against Pools.
In 2018, Clark opted for a move abroad, signing a three-year contract with Eredivisie side Vitesse Arnhem. He made 57 appearances for the Dutch club and added European experience to his CV when he featured against FC Basel in the UEFA Europa League.
Upon returning to England, Clark rejoined Hull City on a short-term deal before going on to represent Fleetwood Town and Rochdale.
In June 2022, he joined Stevenage and made 47 appearances in his first season, becoming a regular in Steve Evans’ side as the Boro secured promotion to League One.
Clark, who is a former England youth international, will wear the number 52 shirt and most recently spent three seasons with Gillingham, contributing 21 goals and assists in 117 appearances.
On signing for Hartlepool, Clark said: “I’m thrilled to join the club; it’s been a busy couple of days, but I’m pleased to get started with the lads, and I’m looking forward to showing the supporters what I can offer.”
Head Coach Pete Wild added: “I’m pleased to get Max on board and in the squad for tomorrow.
“He’s an experienced and versatile defender who arrives with an eagerness to prove a point and help the club progress up the league table.
“Max’s experience will be important, and he’s exactly what we are after at the moment.”
