Nicky Featherstone to leave Hartlepool United manager role at the end of the season

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Hartlepool United owner and chairman Landon Smith thanked Nicky Featherstone for his “commitment and contribution” as manager after the club confirmed he will leave his role at the end of the season.

Amid a string of managerial departures across the Non-League scene, Pools legend Featherstone has become the latest casualty.

The 37-year-old, who has made over 450 appearances for the club and served as a long-standing captain following promotion back to the EFL in 2021, initially took interim charge in October after the dismissal of Simon Grayson – who lasted just four months.

He was appointed on a permanent basis in December after an unbeaten run and led the club through to the end of the season, but a play-off push ultimately fell short amid inconsistent results.

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Tremendous contribution

Now, after completing the final three games of the campaign, Pools will begin the search for his successor.

The club has also held initial discussions with Featherstone over potential alternative roles, supporting his next steps and continued development as a coach or manager.

Pools chairman Smith said: “Nicky has made a tremendous contribution to this football club over a long period of time.

“As a player, a captain and now as a manager, he has always represented Hartlepool United with professionalism, honesty and a deep sense of responsibility.

“He is a legend of this club and his connection with our supporters and the town is something that deserves huge respect.

“Nicky stepped into the role earlier this season at a time when the club needed leadership and stability.

“We are grateful to him for his commitment and the contribution he has made during his time in charge.”

Profile

The American added: “Following a thorough review of our football operations conducted by Bromby & Partners, we have made the decision to move in a specific direction in terms of our first-team manager profile, and at this stage in Nicky’s career development, he does not fit that profile.

“The process with Bromby & Partners has provided a clear assessment and proposal of what is required to move forward, with the long-term aim of achieving promotion into the English Football League.

“With Nicky’s consent, we wanted to communicate that outcome to supporters at the earliest opportunity.

“This change is the next step in a number of developments across our football and operational structure, as we continue to strengthen on and off the pitch.

“It is important to be clear that this does not diminish Nicky’s contribution in any way. He will always be someone who is highly respected, and there are opportunities for Nicky to be part of the club moving forward, if he feels that is the right step in supporting his development.

“We still have three important matches remaining this season and our focus is on finishing the campaign as strongly as possible.

“I know our supporters will get fully behind Nicky and the squad as we look to end the season on a high.”

Replacement

Pools currently sit ninth in the National League, with next season set to be their fourth at this level following relegation from the EFL in 2023.

Chris Maxwell, head of football operations at Bromby & Partners, explained: “We have been working closely with the club and the owner to carry out a detailed review of football operations, establishing a clear understanding of what is required to move forward and put in place the structures that will allow the club to work towards achieving promotion into the English Football League.

“As part of that process, we have had constructive discussions with Nicky, who has conducted himself with professionalism throughout and made a significant contribution during his time in charge.

“The process to identify a replacement has now begun, and our role is to lead on the identification and assessment of candidates, drawing on our experience across the professional game.”

Next up for Hartlepool is a clash against Forest Green Rovers this weekend and Southend United midweek at home before facing a trip to Boston United on the final day of the season.

Honour

Featherstone said: “It has been an honour to lead this football club. Hartlepool United means a huge amount to me and it always will.

“I’m proud of what we’ve done since I first stepped into the role and the way the group has responded. I’ve given everything to it.

“Of course, I’m disappointed, but I fully respect the decision that has been made and the direction the Club is looking to go in.

“I would like to thank the players, the staff and everyone behind the scenes for their commitment and support during my time in charge.

“Most importantly, I want to thank the supporters. I know how much this Club means to them and their support is something I’ve always valued, both as a player and as a manager.

“We still have three important games to play and my focus now is on preparing the team properly and finishing the season as strongly as possible.

“I’ve always said I would do whatever I can to help this football club and that remains the case. I look forward to continuing discussions about how I might contribute going forward.”

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