Lee Clark excited by Hartlepool United youngster's potential as Hebburn Town return lies in wait

Lee Clark has admitted he has been impressed with Hartlepool United youngster Campbell Darcy as he looks to make an impact at senior level during the new season.

The 20-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a new one-year deal at Victoria Park after enjoying an overwhelmingly successful loan spell at Hebburn Town last season as the Hornets defied the odds to claim the Northern Premier League Premier Division title and a historic promotion into the National League North.

Darcy found himself out of contract at the end of the campaign and he admitted he was unsure what could lie ahead for him at Pools after returning to the club this summer. However, after weeks of talks, the versatile midfielder has now agreed a new one-year deal and has showed flashes of why Pools have such high hopes for his progress during pre-season games against Seaton Carew, Redcar Athletic and Spennymoor Town over the last fortnight. Darcy’s long-term goal will be to establish himself in the Pools senior setup over the next season and he expressed his determination to catch Clark’s eyes during preparations for his first season in charge.

The Pools head coach gave a positive assessment of the youngster’s attitude and application as he prepared for Pools pre-season friendly visit to former loan club Hebburn on Tuesday July 21.

He told the club website: “Campbell returned from his loan spell with some excellent reports and, having worked with him throughout pre-season, it’s easy to understand why. Playing regular senior football has clearly been important for him. He has applied himself extremely well, trained at a high level and shown a great attitude every day.

“We have a number of talented young players coming through our Academy and Campbell is certainly one of them. He has earned this new contract and everyone is pleased to see him commit his future to the football club. Now it is about continuing to improve and showing what he is capable of. Pre-season is an important period for every player and we are looking forward to seeing how Campbell progresses.”

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