Mick W - sacked

By Charlie Summerbell
December 6 2011

Not too long ago as Hartlepool United enjoyed an unbeaten start to the season, Mick Wadsworth was the best boos Pools have had for years, turning a squad that cost next to nothing into major League One over-achievers. Now he's the latest football boss on the scrapheap as chairman Ken Hodcroft produces another reminder of his ruthlessness.

And on the face of it, it looks like a big mistake.

Wadsworth took over just after the start of last season when Chris Turner quit, and turned a team that had started badly into a useful mid-table side.

This season Pools started unbeaten, but have suddenly found it difficult to do anything at home – they have one of the best away records in League One, but have lost their last seven at Victoria Park.

Something had to give, and it was Wadsworth.

Many people will find that surprising because he perhaps deserved more time to turn it round, especially with the away record Pools have.

But there’s no room for patience, loyalty or sentiment in football and the powers that be at Pools are clearly no longer satisfied with mid-table mediocrity.

A statement from  the club says: “It is with regret that Hartlepool United have today relieved Mick Wadsworth of his duties as head coach with immediate effect.

“Following a good start to the season, although the away performances have yielded some results, regrettably the last seven home defeats have been of concern and it was felt that a fresh direction was required.

“We would like to wish Mick all the very best for his future career and thank him for his efforts since joining the club in July 2010.

“His contribution and wealth of experience during that time has been greatly appreciated by the chairman, club owners and everyone associated with the club.”

Reserves coach Micky Barron will take temporary charge of the first team, starting with Saturday’s League visit to Brentford.

Sacking Wadsworth after seven home defeats on the bounce might appear to be of little surprise.

But Pools could live to regret that decision, unless the new manager is going to bring a couple of 20-goal strikers with him.