Hartlepool United have confirmed the appointment of former player Graeme Lee as manager.
Lee will be assisted by Michael Nelson, who also played for the club.
Graeme Lee Appointed as New Hartlepool United Manager
𝗜𝗧’𝗦 𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘#WelcomeBackGraeme pic.twitter.com/s8g3bBSrzK
— Hartlepool United FC (@Official_HUFC) December 1, 2021
The Return
Lee had two spells with Hartlepool United as a player. He started his career with them in 1995, before leaving in 2003, 200+ appearances later. He returned for a short stint in 2008 when on loan from Doncaster Rovers.
Much like Lee, new assistant manager Michael Nelson has played well over 200 games for the football club between 2003-2009.
Hartlepool have announced a further appointment with Lee Turnbull joining the club in a consultancy capacity which will see him lead the club’s scouting and recruitment.
The club were left managerless after Dave Challinor left the club, eventually joining Stockport County, just months after signing a new contract.
Interim boss Tony Sweeney will remain in charge of the Pools for tonight’s Papa John’s Trophy game against Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough.
Graeme Lee will take charge for the first time in Saturday’s FA Cup second round trip to Lincoln City’s LNER Stadium.
Modern Approach
Hartlepool United chairman Raj SIngh told hartlepoolunited.co.uk: “It was always the view that we wanted to appoint a manager and coaching team that was modern in their approach, with the capability to build on foundations that have been put in place over recent years.
“Graeme joins us from Middlesbrough FC where he has amassed a wealth of experience over a ten year period and alongside Michael Nelson we believe we have two very forward thinking coaches that are also strong and capable characters to lead the players and club forward.
“Graeme and Michael also know this level of football remarkably well having captained various sides in the Football League, they are natural leaders and both have a deep connection with our club having played nearly 500 games for Hartlepool United between them.
“I have great confidence that their commitment and work ethic will be second to none and I felt it was critical that we have people in the building who want to go the journey with us, to really unlock this club’s full potential.”
Hartlepool were promoted from the National League in 2020/21. They sit 17th in League Two, eight points clear of Oldham Athletic in the relegation spots. Having lost five consecutive league games, they’ll be hoping Graeme Lee can get them back on track as soon as possible. For his first league game, Hartlepool host Rochdale on Wednesday, December 8, looking to get their first league win on the board since October 23. That said, they have won seven of their 19 league games so far, so the potential is there.
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