Here are 12 problems facing potential new Hartlepool United owners.
9. Making Pools "the town's club" once again
For far too long, Hartlepool United has been divided. Yet Pools, who have one of the most colourful, committed and dedicated fanbases, must do more to maximise its potential. There have been times over the last couple of seasons when it's felt like the club have been going through the motions. Communication, openness, accountability, culpability, a clear vision, plan and direction have all been lacking and must be improved upon in order for the club to re-establish a connection with disillusioned supporters and the town as a whole. Photo: Frank Reid
10. Managing expectations
Hartlepool United's proud history of being a Football League club has weighed heavily ever since Pools were first relegated to the National League in 2017. New owners will have to strike the right balance between managing expectations - at this stage, it seems unlikely Pools are going to be in a position to blow their rivals out the water financially, no matter what happens - and striving for success, which in this case has to be a return to League Two. New owners will need to be realistic, pragmatic and ambitious. False hope is clearly detrimental, but some form of belief is essential. Photo: Frank Reid
11. Recruitment
All too often, Pools have operated according to a haphazard, scattergun approach to recruitment. Last summer did at least represent a pleasing change in that regard, with Pools far more purposeful and focused. Even so, the club have lacked a clear recruitment model like those favoured by Gateshead, Barnet and Altrincham, allowing them to punch above their weight and go toe-to-toe with the richest and biggest clubs in the division, for far too long. Photo: Frank Reid
12. Putting the foundations in place for future success
It's no coincidence that countless players and coaches that have failed to establish themselves at Pools have gone on to experience success elsewhere. While the stars might sometimes align, allowing Pools to have an occasional taste of fleeting success, without solid foundations the club are not in a position to consistently progress. In order to achieve sustained success, Pools must change their way of doing things. Photo: Frank Reid