'Not a club you want to leave' – club captain Ryan Donaldson discusses future at Hartlepool United

Donaldson dispatched the crucial penalty before Brad James’ save in the promotion final shoot-out victory over Torquay United at Ashton Gate.

But after starting just 16 out of a possible 48 matches during the 2020-21 campaign, the 30-year-old’s future at Victoria Park is up in the air.

The Mail understands that Northern Premier side Morpeth Town would be keen to sign Donaldson should he fail to agree a new deal at Pools.

And the Hartlepool captain admitted it would be difficult for him, or any of his promotion winning teammates, to leave the club.

“This club isn’t one that you really want to leave, even through the low times,” Donladson told The Mail. “It’s special and I think if people do leave, it won’t be easy decisions, it will be with a heavy heart especially after what we’ve achieved but that’s just the nature of the game.

"People will leave and the squad won’t be the same as what it was on August 7 compared to what it was on June 20.

"The club will be fine and that’s the most important thing and I’m sure the gaffer will have a good team come August 7, I can guarantee that.”

As it stands, Pools are yet to confirm a renewed contract or new signing following their promotion with just four first team regulars in Mark Shelton, Timi Odusina, Gavan Holohan and David Ferguson contracted for the upcoming campaign.

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