Hartlepool United fans wonder what is next following departure of chief executive Mark Maguire

The financial pressures caused by the shutdown of the National League season and a significant lack of clarity moving forward have caused owner Raj Singh to strip things to the bone.

Manager Dave Challinor has just eight players contracted with no new arrivals imminent until future plans are outlined by the National League.

Maguire’s exit leaves just six employees behind the scenes at Pools from the accounting, retail and ground staff departments.

While Poolies continue to support the club through their impressive fundraising effort, these recent developments have led them to ponder exactly what’s next.

Maguire continuing to assist the club during ‘the handover process’ sparked the interest of several fans on social media.

The ‘handover process’ phrase used in the club statement caused some confusion with fans speculating that it could be hinting at a potential takeover at the club it went on to state that supporters would be kept updated on the situation.

Hartlepool fan Jack Ashman tweeted: “Have we been sold or subject to an offer? Certainly comes across that way or just very bad wording from the club.”

Several others also voiced similar views. In reality, the handover process is likely just to ensure a smooth transition for Maguire’s replacement.

A new chief executive is expected to come in with sources close to the club suggesting an announcement could be made by the end of the month.

In response to the speculation, supporter @Hooksy_1 posted: “Some of the comments in this thread are frankly, baffling. There’s nothing of a hint of doom and gloom in that statement at all.”

Regardless, this is a worrying time for Hartlepool and non-league football clubs across the country. Singh has made it clear that he won’t be able to fund Pools indefinitely without any form of income at the club.

The £30,000 being raised by fans is a fantastic gesture but ultimately a drop in the ocean when looking at the club’s running costs and £400,000 shortfall even when matches are taking place.

The ‘ongoing changes’ being made at Victoria Park are simply short-term fixes to help preserve the club during this unprecedented period – the long term picture is growing increasingly murky.