Jack Hunter 'delighted' after new Hartlepool United deal agreed

Jack Hunter has expressed his delight after agreeing a new one-year deal at Hartlepool United.

The former Gateshead and FC Halifax Town midfielder has been in talks over a new agreement in recent weeks and has now penned a 12-month contract that Pools can be extend by a further year next summer. Hunter has spent the last two seasons at the Prestige Group Stadium and has made 64 appearances in all competitions during that time - and he is now excited by what the future could hold after holding talks with new manager Lee Clark.

He told the club website: “I’m delighted to get everything sorted and stay at Pools. Growing up in the North East, you always know the size of Hartlepool United and how much it means to the supporters and local community. But you probably don’t fully appreciate it until you actually pull on the shirt and experience it for yourself because this is a massive club with a really passionate fanbase. The supporters have been brilliant with me since day one and I’ve loved my time here over the last two seasons.

“Obviously, as players, we all wish we’d achieved more during that period because the supporters deserve success, but there’s a real determination from everyone to improve and push things forward. I’ve had some really positive conversations with Lee Clark and Chris Maxwell since everything was agreed and you can already sense the standards and expectations they want throughout the group. The manager has spoken a lot about the mentality he wants within the squad and the direction he wants to take things and, as players, that’s exciting to hear.”

The move comes as a further boost for new Pools boss Clark as he looks to piece together a squad capable of pushing for success during his first season in charge. Hunter’s former Newcastle United academy team-mate Luke Charman also agreed a new deal last week and they seem certain to have a whole host of new team-mates when the Pools players return to pre-season training next month.

Experience

Clark believes retaining Hunter’s services is a major positive as the versatile midfielder’s experience, consistency and attitude will make him ‘a very important player’ in his new look squad.

He said: “Jack is a player we were very keen to retain and I’m pleased we’ve agreed terms with him. He already understands the expectations and responsibility that come with representing this football club and he brings a lot of valuable qualities both on and off the pitch. His experience, consistency and attitude make him a very important player for us heading into the new season.

“From the conversations I’ve had with Jack since coming into the Club, it’s clear he’s fully committed and eager to be part of what we’re putting together here. He’s someone with a very good understanding of the game and the type of character and mentality we want within the squad.”

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