Ex-Chelsea starlet signs new contract at Hartlepool United

Michael Woods has committed his future to Hartlepool United by signing a new deal.
Michael Woods: New dealMichael Woods: New deal
Michael Woods: New deal

The midfielder had been out of contract and there was interest from other clubs, including League One side Oldham Athletic.

But Woods ended all speculation this morning by putting pen to paper at Victoria park.

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It is a huge boost to Pools and boss Craig Hignett, who had earmarked the 26-year-old as one of his key players for the 2016-17 season.

“Michael is a terrific player and I am delighted we have managed to get him sorted,” Hignett said.

“He’s an important player for us and he is exactly the type of character you want at a football club so I think it’s great news.”

Hignett had already got Matthew Bates, Trevor Carson and Nathan Thomas to commit to new contracts and agreeing terms with Woods is another step closer to the manager finalising his squad.

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“I know Michael is excited by what is happening at the club,” Hignett told the club’s website.

“He wants to be part of that so we’re really pleased we’ve been able to agree this longer contract.”

Woods was in terrific form last season, playing 37 times having recovered from a dislocated ankle and fractured fibula suffered early in 2015.

The former Chelsea youngster also added goals to his game, scoring twice during Hignett’s reign including the winner against York City for the second time this season, having netted at Bootham Crescent back in August.