Hartlepool United manager Dave Challinor explains why Nicke Kabamba sale to Kilmarnock was the best option

Dave Challinor felt Kilmarnock’s offer to sign striker Nicke Kabamba was too good for Hartlepool United to turn down.
Nicke Kabamba celebrates scoring against Barnet (photo: Mark Fletcher).Nicke Kabamba celebrates scoring against Barnet (photo: Mark Fletcher).
Nicke Kabamba celebrates scoring against Barnet (photo: Mark Fletcher).

While Kabamba’s move north of the border leaves Pools short of options up front, Challinor felt receiving a five figure fee for a forward who was out of contract at the end of the season was a good piece of business for all parties.

When discussing how the deal came about, the United manager explained: “We’ve had calls about Nicke down south since before I arrived here asking questions but he’s been involved here and I didn’t envisage that changing.

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Kilmarnock made an enquiry late on Thursday and nothing came of it because we said no but then they came back with a formal offer.

“Once that happened, it was about making a decision regarding where that offer sat and whether it was something that was acceptable for all parties.

“I think from our perspective, we’ve got a player who’s out of contract in a few months and we’ve been able to get a fee for him.

“From Nicke’s perspective, it’s given him the security of another year so I think it’s a good move for everyone.”

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Following Kabamba’s sale, Hartlepool travelled to Huish Park with two senior strikers in the squad in Aidan Keena and Niko Muir. And despite Kilmarnock’s interest, Kabamba was keen to play at Huish Park before the deal was formally completed.

Challinor added: “Speaking to Nicke on Friday morning, he wanted to come down and play and he would have played at but he goes with everyone’s best wishes.”