Wild delving into the deep end at Pools

By Neil Harvey

WELCOME ABOARD: Pete Wild becomes acquainted with the dressing room at Hartlepool United

PICTURE: Alamy

Pete Wild wants to roll back the years with Hartlepool United after landing the manager’s job.

The former FC Halifax Town, Fleetwood Town and Barrow boss has been appointed at Lee Clark’s successor after the ex-Newcastle United midfielder resigned following a tricky start.

Despite high hopes after a number of high-profile recruits in the summer, Clark left Pools after defeat to Worthing last month, their sixth loss in seven games.

Wild returns to the National League following an interim spell with League Two Tranmere Rovers.

He had success in the division with FC Halifax, with two play-off finishes in his three years at th helm.

And he believes Pools determined to revitalise the north-east outift.

“I’m really pleased and excited to be here and I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead,” said Wild, who arrives with assistant Dave Conlon.

“Hartlepool United are a sleeping giant – they should not be in the National League. In my youth, Hartlepool were always a well-established Football League club, and the challenge to get them back, alongside what is going on behind the scenes with Landon (Smith), certainly attracted me to the role.

“There is so much to be excited about, and we hope we can help and bring the good times.”

Chris Maxwell, head of football operations at Bromby & Partners who run the club, says Wild can bring out the best in their squad.

He said: “I’m delighted Pete has joined, and I firmly believe he possesses all the qualities to galvanise this group and lead us forward.

“We have conducted a thorough and lengthy process, and Pete emerged as a clear candidate for the role.

“He brings a wealth of experience, attention to detail and a relentless drive to improve, making him the right fit for Hartlepool United both short and long-term.

“We have a good group of players in the building, and his job will be to bring the best out of them and take them to where we know they can get to.”