Hartlepool captain Andrew Davies departs

Captain Andrew Davies parted ways with Hartlepool United yesterday – and then apologised to fans for not delivering success.

The 34-year-old reached an agreement to cancel his contract by mutual consent following discussions with Pools’ chief executive Mark Maguire, director of football Craig Hignett and manager Richard Money.

Davies, the former Middlesbrough and Bradford City defender, has been frustrated by another disappointing campaign which has seen the Pools fail to fulfil the expectations of a promotion challenge.

And by way of apology, Davies opened up to the fans in a farewell statement, where he insisted his departure had caused no ill-feeling.

He said: “I am sorry that I could not achieve what I had set out to do from the day I joined Hartlepool United Football Club.

“Football is an environment where you never know what’s around the corner; we go our separate ways with mutual respect and I am grateful for having had the privilege to be captain of Hartlepool United.

“I met some great people at the club, and the fans were great with me so I wish them, the staff and everyone else associated with the club every success in the future.”

Hignett added: “Andrew is a proper professional, a great lad and someone who we wish the very best of luck for the future.

“We are sorry it hasn’t worked out here but I’m sure that wherever he goes next he will be a success.”