Hartlepool United manager Nicky Featherstone to step down at end of season

The 37-year-old, who is the club's third highest appearance maker of all time and was still registered as a member of the playing squad at the beginning of the campaign, took charge of Pools on an interim basis following the sacking of Simon Grayson in October.

Despite overseeing a humbling FA Cup exit at the hands of Northern Premier League Premier Division side Gainsborough Trinity in his first game in charge, Featherstone would go on to earn a permanent contract after masterminding a run of seven matches unbeaten.

Since then, Featherstone has endured his fair share of highs and lows, with Pools securing memorable wins against the likes of title-chasing Rochdale and rivals Carlisle United but also humiliating defeats to Northern Premier League Division One Midlands side Anstey Nomads and Wealdstone, who thrashed them 7-0 last month.

The news comes following what Pools termed "a comprehensive review of the club's football operations" by specialist football consultancy firm Bromby and Partners.

The club also revealed that they have held "initial discussions" with Featherstone, who is set to remain in charge for the final three games of the season, "to offer alternative roles and opportunities in support of his next steps and further development as a coach or manager".

Landon Smith, owner and chairman of Hartlepool United, said: "Nicky has made a tremendous contribution to this football club over a long period of time.

"As a player, a captain and now as a manager, he has always represented Hartlepool United with professionalism, honesty and a deep sense of responsibility.

"He is a legend of this club and his connection with our supporters and the town is something that deserves huge respect.

"Nicky stepped into the role earlier this season at a time when the club needed leadership and stability.

"We are grateful to him for his commitment and the contribution he has made during his time in charge.

"Following a thorough review of our football operations conducted by Bromby and Partners, we have taken the decision to move in a specific direction in terms of our first-team manager profile, and at this stage in Nicky’s career development, he does not fit that profile.

"The process with Bromby and Partners has provided a clear assessment and proposal of what is required to move forward, with the long-term aim of achieving promotion into the English Football League.

"With Nicky’s consent, we wanted to communicate that outcome to supporters at the earliest opportunity.

"This change is the next step in a number of developments across our football and operational structure, as we continue to strengthen on and off the pitch.

"It is important to be clear that this does not diminish Nicky’s contribution in any way.

"He will always be someone who is highly respected, and there are opportunities for Nicky to be part of the club moving forward, if he feels that is the right step in supporting his development.

"We still have three important matches remaining this season and our focus is on finishing the campaign as strongly as possible.

"I know our supporters will get fully behind Nicky and the squad as we look to end the season on a high."

Chris Maxwell, Head of Football Operations at Bromby and Partners said: "We have been working closely with the club and the owner to carry out a detailed review of football operations, establishing a clear understanding of what is required to move forward and put in place the structures that will allow the club to work towards achieving promotion into the English Football League.

"As part of that process, we have had constructive discussions with Nicky, who has conducted himself with professionalism throughout and made a significant contribution during his time in charge.

"The process to identify a replacement has now begun, and our role is to lead on the identification and assessment of candidates, drawing on our experience across the professional game."

Nicky Featherstone said: "It has been an honour to lead this football club. "Hartlepool United means a huge amount to me and it always will.

"I'm proud of what we’ve done since I first stepped into the role and the way the group has responded. I’ve given everything to it.

"Of course, I’m disappointed, but I fully respect the decision that has been made and the direction the club is looking to go in.

"I would like to thank the players, the staff and everyone behind the scenes for their commitment and support during my time in charge.

"Most importantly, I want to thank the supporters. I know how much this club means to them and their support is something I’ve always valued, both as a player and as a manager.

"We still have three important games to play and my focus now is on preparing the team properly and finishing the season as strongly as possible.

"I’ve always said I would do whatever I can to help this football club and that remains the case.

"I look forward to continuing discussions about how I might contribute going forward."

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