League Two side Hartlepool United have announced that their manager Dave Challinor intends to leave and take the vacant managerial position at Stockport County. United rejected National League side County’s approach on Sunday; however, Challinor has now informed them that he intends to leave.
Dave Challinor to Leave Hartlepool and Take Over at Stockport County
Club Statement: Dave Challinor
— Hartlepool United FC (@Official_HUFC) November 1, 2021
United Unhappy That Approach Did Not Go Through Them First
It is understood that Stockport, who have been without a manager since sacking Simon Rusk, approached Challinor via his agent last week instead of contacting the club. Hartlepool unhappy with how the approach had been conducted declined any request from Stockport to speak to their manager. Following United’s decision, Challinor informed the club of his intentions to leave. The League Two club that Challinor guided to promotion last season are now set to seek legal advice. Coach Anthony Sweeney will take charge for the immediate future.
Challinor a Success at Hartlepool
It is little wonder that National League side Stockport are interested in the services of Dave Challinor. Following relegation from the Football League for the first time in their history in 2017, it took Hartlepool until this year to see a return. Two disappointing seasons which saw 15th and 16th place finishes, the club looked set to have another mediocre season when they turned to Challinor in a hope that he would turn around their fortunes.
Challinor steadied the ship and almost guided the team to the playoffs before the Covid-19 pandemic brought a halt to the season. In his first full season in charge, the former Tranmere Rovers and Stockport defender led Hartlepool to fourth place and a place in the playoffs. United defeated Bromley, Stockport and Torquay United to earn a place back in the Football League.
Pool have had a solid start on their return to League Two and currently lie in 10th place with only goal difference keeping them outside of the playoff places.
Should Challinor take over at his former club Stockport, they will be hoping he can replicate the success he had at Hartlepool having been a non-league side since relegation in 2011.
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