Flinders - new deal

By Charlie Summerbell
May 18 2011

Mick Wadsworth says he is happy with the progress he is making in building a Hartlepool United squad for next season, making a handful of encouraging new signings as well as persuading some important members of his squad to extend their stays at Victoria Park. But he is still looking for the striker he believes can transform promise into achievement.

With Nobby Solano joining the club and James Poole returning after his successful loan from Manchester City, Paul Murray, Peter Hartley and keeper Scott Flinders are the latest players to extend their contracts.

But Wadsworth is keen for others to follow, especially players like top scorer Antony Sweeney. And there's the small matter of a striker who can guarantee a good number of goals next season - every manager in the country wants players like that.

As usual, despite that promising start to the summer with Solano and Poole signing, it’s going to be a busy time for the club, and every Wadsworth move will be surrounded in secrecy, rumours, counter-rumours, fantasy and fairy-tales.

Already it’s being said that Sweeney is being watched by other clubs and there is every chance that is true, but there will be a lot more of that sort of rumour before the new season kicks-off in August.

Meanwhile, the club’s stubborn refusal to be anything like open in its dealings with people has prompted two of Wadsworth’s freed players to hit out because of the timing of the news that they were being released.

Leon McSweeney has told the Northern Echo: “The way the club have allowed things to get to this late stage is a joke. You’re dealing with people’s livelihoods and to be told when the season is over that you’re not wanted shows a serious lack of respect.

“I’ve given everything to that club. I don’t think the manager appreciated what I did for the team so it suits me to seek employment elsewhere. That’s the mentality of the club but it’s a poor way of doing things. It’s probably a blessing in disguise to be getting out of there.

“I’m confident that I’ll get sorted with another club over the summer. I’ve had good feedback from clubs throughout the season. I’ve had a few enquiries, which is always good to hear.’’

Joe Gamble added: “I’m disappointed and feel a bit let down by the way the club did business.
“I think it shows a lack of respect for someone who has given their all for the club. I respect the club’s decision, but I’m disappointed in the manner of timing. But that’s life – I’m not one bit bitter.’’

As the club has not yet announced how long Wadsworth will be expected to ve caretaker manager, nobody should be surprised.