Coaching Shake-Up at Hartlepool United Following Consecutive Defeats...

The Departure of Pools Assistant Coach Neil McDonald  Follows Hartlepool United's 2-1 defeat to York City....

7th October 2025

Hartlepool United FC have formally announced they've parted ways with their assistant coach following a disappointing run of losses in the Vanarama National League.

It comes following a 3–0 loss to Carlisle United on October 1st and a weekend Home defeat to York City. The Club yesterday evening officially announced a change in its coaching setup, with pools now sitting 12th in the Vanarama National League table.

In the statement placed on the clubs official website it states, Hartlepool United have confirmed that Assistant Coach Neil McDonald has parted ways with the Club.

Manager Simon Grayson will continue to be supported by Nicky Featherstone, and the coaching team will now be strengthened by Elliott Dickman, who joins as First Team Coach.

Dickman brings extensive experience from the North East football scene, having previously worked with the development squads at Sunderland and Newcastle United. The 46-year-old also managed South Shields in the National League North between 2023 and this past summer.

Speaking after his appointment, Dickman said:

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Simon and everyone at the Club. Getting back into senior football is exciting, and this squad has real potential.I’m looking forward to getting started and helping the team push forward.”

The Club also thanked Neil McDonald for his contribution and wished him well in his future endeavours.

Hartlepool fans will now be hoping the coaching reshuffle can spark a dramatic turnaround in form as the team not only looks to climb back up the National League table but stave off rumour's of a looming financial crisis after a series of failed takeover bids for the club.