This is why Stockport County have allowed Hartlepool United to sign striker Richie Bennett

Pools swooped to sign the striker on loan ahead of the Good Friday Dagenham & Redbridge National League clash.

Bennett arrived on a loan deal until the end of the season, though Stockport do have a recall option after 28 days.

The 6ft 4ins 30-year-old forward is aiming to make a big impact.

Explaining why they allowed Bennett to join Pools, Stockport County director of football Simon Wilson said: “Richie has unfortunately found himself out of the team recently and expressed an interest in gaining playing time.

"He is valued member of our group here and as such we wanted to work together with him to find a solution.

“This type of situation requires a bit of maturity from all involved and although it is competitive sport it is still about people and relationships.

"Hartlepool are a well managed club and we know will provide a good environment for Richie to find his mojo.”

Pools had been actively pursuing targets for a number of weeks as they look to strengthen before the April 22 registration deadline.

Dave Challinor and his coaching team have been assessing players across the National League North and South after the sixth tier campaign was declared null and void and ended back in February.

Challinor said: “I am delighted to get Richie in. He is proven at this level and provides a different facet to our game.

"It has been well known that we wanted to bring a forward in and he has been one we have looked at for a while. To get the deal done is great for him and the club.”

Bennet added: “Delighted to sign for Hartlepool United This is a great opportunity for me and I want to come in and really help the team progress.

"Everyone can see how well Dave Challinor and his team have done and I am really looking forward to getting started”.

Since 2016, Bennett has had spells with Barrow, Carlisle, Morecambe and Port Vale before signing for The Hatters for an undisclosed fee back in March 2020.

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