Here, we've taken a look at 10 potential candidates Hartlepool United should consider as the hunt for the 14th permanent appointment of chairman and owner Raj Singh's controversial tenure goes on.
5. Derek Adams
The straight-talking Scotsman was dealt a rough hand over the summer after being sacked by Morecambe in order for new owners Panjab Warriors to appoint the little-known Ashvir Singh Johal. Nonetheless, the 50-year-old enjoys legendary status in Lancashire having led the Shrimps to promotion to League One for the first time in the club's history in 2021. Has also won promotions with Ross County and Plymouth and, although he oversaw Morecambe's relegation last season, handled all the nightmarish off-field issues the Lancashire side were forced to contend with in admirable fashion. Photo: Gareth Copley
6. Graham Coughlan
Pools were rebuffed after making a well-documented approach for the straight-talking Irishman over the summer after he masterminded a remarkable escape from National League relegation last term with Boston, leading the Pilgrims to safety despite the Lincolnshire side being 12 points adrift at one stage. While there was plenty of optimism that Boston might be set to kick on this season, it hasn't quite happened like that so far and the Pilgrims are languishing in 17th having lost three of their last four games. Whether that might change things for Pools, Boston or Couglan is unclear. Photo: Getty Images : f
7. Rob Elliot
The former Newcastle goalkeeper worked wonders with a limited budget during a successful spell in charge of Gateshead but found things tough going after making the step up to League One to take over at Crawley, winning just six of his 33 matches. Even so, his impressive stint at Gateshead and his attractive brand of football means he'll have his fair share of backers amongst the Pools fanbase. Photo: Pete Norton
8. Daryl McMahon
The Irishman has been in charge of Hornchurch since January 2024 and has done a remarkable job with the Upminster side, leading them to the Isthmian Premier Division title in his first campaign in East London. Having masterminded a ninth placed finish in the National League South last term, the Urchins are currently six points clear at the top having won 11 and drawn five of their opening 16 matches this season. The former Ebbsfleet, Macclesfield and Dagenham boss penned a new three-year contract in May 2025, so the prospect of a considerable compensation package could well prove a potential sticking point. Photo: Mark Fletcher