With the hunt for Grayson's successor still ongoing, we've taken a look at 14 left-field managerial options Pools should consider.
5. Ian Culverhouse
Culverhouse, who made 369 appearances for Norwich, led Boston to promotion to the National League in 2024 and is currently in charge of National League North side King's Lynn Town. Photo: Getty Images
6. Billy Paynter
The 41-year-old was a popular figure at Victoria Park during a spell as a player, making more than 50 Pools appearances, and even had a stint in caretaker charge alongside Matthew Bates following the sacking of the divisive Dave Jones. While he doesn't have a whole host of managerial experience, he has taken charge of Northern Premier League Division One West side Runcorn Linnets as well as Cymru Premier outfit Connah's Quay Nomads. Photo: Lewis Storey/Getty Images
7. Ian Watson
Regarded as one of the best up-and-coming managers in English football, Watson has made an excellent start to life in charge of National League North side South Shields and the Mariners are second in the table with two games in hand on leaders Fylde having lost just one of their opening 15 matches. Photo: Jane Russell
8. Phil Brown
Born in South Shields, Brown made well over 200 appearances for Pools and led Hull to the Premier League in 2008, while he also won promotion from League Two with Southend in 2015. Having finished third in the National League North with Kidderminster last term, the 66-year-old former full-back is currently in charge of strugglers Peterborough Sports. Photo: Steve Leath