Featherstone: “Hartlepool are the biggest team in the National League”

(Picture: Action Images via Reuters)

By Matt Bishop

Hartlepool United midfielder Nicky Featherstone has said his teammates must show more arrogance after their poor start to the National League campaign – insisting Craig Harrison’s men are “the biggest team in this league”.

The former Hull City midfielder, 28, returned to Harrison’s starting XI on Tuesday as Hartlepool put in their best display yet in the draw with Chester, but their search for a first win of the season continues.

After two draws and two defeats, Pools are languishing just outside the relegation zone. However, after their encouraging midweek performance, Featherstone is confident the results will come – starting at Bromley tomorrow.

“Mentality is a big thing,” said the midfielder, speaking to the Hartlepool Mail. “We are maybe going to grounds some weeks that are like we are used to – like Macclesfield. That was just like a League Two ground.

“Then we have places like Maidenhead or tomorrow which are places that we have to get used to. Maybe the dressing rooms are smaller, the ground not as good. But that shouldn’t matter. It is all in the head.

“What we need to do is go to these places with a bit of arrogance.

“We are the biggest team in this league – we are Hartlepool United. We have to believe that and show teams just how good we are.”

Like Pools, fellow National League newboys Leyton Orient have not found life easy in Non-League, with Steve Davis’ men experiencing a mixed start to the season that most recently saw them thrashed by Bromley.

However, Featherstone is in confident mood after his return to fitness, and is not fazed by The Ravens and their stunning victory on Tuesday night.

“Their confidence will be high, but we should not, and do not, fear anyone in this league.?” said the 28-year-old.

“We feel like, with the players that we have, we can beat anyone at this level. We can go there and create chances and score goals.

“We want to win the game, make no mistake about it.”