[themaclad]

Hartlepool United have appointed Simon Grayson as the National League club's new manager.

Grayson replaces Australian Anthony Limbrick, who was sacked on Thursday after four months in the role.

The 55-year-old's most recent job was with Lalitpur City in the Nepal Super League, where he won the title in April. He has managed seven clubs in England, including Leeds and Preston, as well as Bengaluru in the Indian Super League.

"The club has gone through some tough times recently but by working hard together as a staff and fanbase we can bring back the good times which this football club deserves," Grayson told the club's website, external.

Pools finished last season 11th, eight points outside the play-offs.

"I'm delighted that Simon has accepted the role," said club chairman Raj Singh.

"Simon is someone who has been on our radar for a while and he's been my preferred candidate in the past when we've looked for managers, but for one reason or the other it didn't come off."

After retiring from playing in 2006, Grayson has won promotion from League One to the Championship with Blackpool, Leeds, Huddersfield and Preston in his managerial career.

[themaclad]

The door marked exit has been opened

[themaclad]

Hartlepool United have sacked manager Simon Grayson after four months in charge at the National League club.

Grayson, 55, was appointed as Anthony Limbrick's successor in June and Hartlepool took 10 points from their first four league games under the former Leeds United, Sunderland and Preston North End boss.

But a club statement, external said a subsequent run of one win in 11 games in all competitions "falls short of the required standard" and Grayson has departed with Hartlepool 12th in the table after 14 matches.

His final game in charge was Saturday's 1-1 draw with seventh-tier Gainsborough Trinity in the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup.

"Following discussions yesterday evening [Saturday] and a board meeting this [Sunday] morning, it became clear that expectations with performances and results have not been met," said the statement.

"Obtaining one win in the past 11 games falls short of the required standard; therefore, the board of directors have collectively made the extremely difficult decision to relieve Simon of his duties."

The statement added that player-coach Nicky Featherstone, aided by Elliott Dickman and Adam Smith, will take charge in the interim period - starting with Tuesday's replay against Gainsborough.