Former Carlisle United and Middlesbrough midfielder Jason Kennedy closing in on Hartlepool United deal

The 32-year-old has been involved in all four of Pools’ friendlies, scoring once in the 6-0 win at Shildon. He has been on trial at the club since the start of pre-season and a potential deal is thought to be close.

The former Carlisle United midfielder played an hour for Hartlepool in Sunday’s 4-0 defeat at home to Middlesbrough and is set to feature once again at York on Wednesday.

Pools boss Craig Hignett confirmed that he will speak to the player this week regarding a possible contract offer despite his initial playing budget being spent.

Few trialists who have been as involved as Kennedy has at Pools this pre-season fail to be offered a deal at a club and the midfielder’s performances have certainly warranted one – whether Pools can agree terms is another matter.

Only four players (Kenton Richardson, Peter Kioso and Aaron Cunningham) have played more minutes than the midfielder in pre-season so far.

Stockton-born Kennedy previously told the Teesside Gazette: “I'm grateful for what Hartlepool have done and they've at least given me the opportunity to get fit and get some good training in.

“They've got a great set-up, a good set of lads. It's a perfect location for me, I just have to hope and make sure I can earn a contract."

A decision is expected this week with both parties hopeful of reaching an agreement.