There was news of a departure from Hartlepool United on Friday evening.

Hartlepool United have confirmed the departure of assistant first team coach Adam Clayton.

The former Middlesbrough and Huddersfield Town midfielder was named as part of former head coach Lee Clark’s coaching staff during the summer after he spent time as manager of Northern Premier League club Matlock Town last season.

Clayton went on to take joint-interim charge of Pools for a short spell when Clark stepped down in the aftermath of a home defeat against National League rivals Worthing in September - and remained with the club during the early weeks of new head coach Pete Wild’s Victoria Park reign.

However, Clayton’s departure has now been confirmed as Pools thanked the 37-year-old for ‘his contribution and efforts’ during his time on their backroom staff.

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A statement released via the club website on Friday evening read: “We can confirm that Assistant First Team Coach Adam Clayton has departed the club. The 37-year-old joined Hartlepool United in June and, during his time at the club, brought a wealth of experience and leadership to the squad in his roles as First Team Coach and Interim Head Coach. Following a successful playing career spanning more than two decades, Clayton began his coaching journey at Matlock Town in 2024, progressing from player-coach to manager during a 17-month spell at the Northern Premier League side. The Club would like to thank Adam for his contribution and efforts during his time at Victoria Park and wishes him every success in the future.”

Pools also confirmed assistant head coach Dave Conlan and first team coaches Gary Liddle and Adam Smith will continue to form part of Wild’s backroom staff.

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