Hartlepool United could look to Newcastle United, Sunderland and Middlesbrough academy stars to boost their squad this summer.
As it stands, Nicky Featherstone’s side are sitting two points and two places adrift of the top seven and could end the night in a play-off spot if they claim all three points at Grosvenor Vale and Southend United are beaten at home by Yeovil Town. No matter what happens, Pools will already have one eye on their summer recruitment as owner Landon Smith looks to put in place solid foundations to build what fans will hope will be a brighter future for their club.
The American businessman has already spoken of his desire to build a pathway from the club’s academy into the first-team set-up and a number of young players will hope to make that jump in the near future. However, Pools could also look to other local academies to boost their ranks as prospects at Newcastle United, Sunderland and Middlesbrough await news on their future of the North East’s ‘big three’. Pools have already taken advantage of a young player leaving one of that trio when they captured Jamie Miley from Newcastle - but could any current prospects follow a similar path to the talented midfielder? We take a look at five players awaiting news on their future that could be of use to Pools.
Alfie Harrison - Newcastle United
Probably the most ambitious name on this list given he is highly likely to have significant interest from EFL clubs and there have been suggestions some European clubs are also monitoring the former Manchester City academy star. It hasn’t quite happened for the attacking midfielder at Newcastle and his first-team opportunities have been limited to pre-season friendlies. However, there is no questioning his talent and he could be a useful addition.
Jenson Jones - Sunderland
The 19-year-old has been a stalwart of Black Cats academy sides in recent years and has also been named in first team matchday squads on eight occasions this season. However, the most significant moment of Jones’ career came last August when he made his senior debut in a Carabao Cup defeat against Huddersfield Town. As it stands, the versatile full-back will be available this summer.
Adam Richardson - Sunderland
The Black Cats academy goalkeeper has earned senior experience during loan stints with Guiseley, Blyth Spartans and Hebburn Town over recent seasons - but at the age of 22, Richardson is facing a major decision over his future as he appears to be approaching the end of his time with Sunderland. There is a need to forge a career away from the Stadium of Light and Richardson could be a shrewd addition to the Pools ranks.
Rhys Walsh - Sunderland
A Northern Ireland Under-19 international, Walsh showed clear signs of his ability when he spent a short spell on loan at National League North title challengers South Shields earlier this season. Winger Walsh returned to the Academy of Light in October and has been a regular feature in Black Cats Under-21 sides throughout the season - but now appears to be at a crossroads in his career and a permanent move into senior football could be on the agenda this summer.
Hazeem Bakre - Middlesbrough
Another player with senior experience from loan spells at Dagenham and Redbridge and Darlington, Bakre has struggled for game-time in Boro’s Under-21s this season - although he has appeared as a substitute in their last three Premier League 2 fixtures and found the net in a recent 6-1 hammering of Stoke City. Bakre is an out-and-out centre forward and could boost Pools depth at the top end of the pitch.
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