Former Hartlepool United, Carlisle and Middlesbrough midfielder Jason Kennedy reacts after completing Spennymoor Town switch

Jason Kennedy celebrates after scoring their second goal during the Vanarama National League match between Hartlepool United and Yeovil Town at Victoria Park, Hartlepool on Saturday 5th October 2019. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News)

The 33-year-old midfielder enjoyed a successful loan spell at the Brewery Field during the latter part of the 2019-20 campaign after failing to start a game for Hartlepool since last October.

After being left wheelchair-bound after suffering a serious back injury whilst at Carlisle United, there were serious doubts that Kennedy’s career in football could continue before he arrived on trial at Pools last summer.

But after impressing on trial during pre-season, Kennedy signed a one-year deal at Victoria Park. He went on to make 20 appearances for Pools, scoring twice including a last gasp winner against Yeovil Town in what would prove to be his final start for the club.

Last month, the veteran playmaker was announced as one of the 10 players released from Hartlepool as the club published its retained list.

And upon signing for the Moors, Kennedy told the club website: “It was an easy decision to sign permanently.

“I loved my time here on loan and I really enjoyed working with Jason and the management team – I felt really wanted.

“The lads were a different class and I got a great feel for the club in a short space of time.

“I feel Spennymoor will push on and be even more successful and I’m excited by the prospect of having a positive season ahead. I can’t wait to get started.”

Although Kennedy failed to start a match under Dave Challinor, the Hartlepool manager has spoken very highly of the Stockton native.

“He’s a brilliant pro, a great lad and if any of our younger players needed any guidance on how to carry themselves as a professional then he is the ultimate professional,” said the Pools boss last season.

“But what we both agreed on is that I don’t see him as a substitute really, as daft as that might sound. He’s not an impact-type player that you need from the bench.

“He’s one who is, unfortunately, another midfielder who is similar to the ones we’ve got and that’s the only reason why wasn’t involved.”