Hartlepool boss Craig Hignett completed the signing of ex-Carlisle United favourite Jason Kennedy and couldn't hide his delight at the news.

Kennedy had been on trial at Victoria Park this pre-season and has now earned a contract.

It caps experienced Kennedy's dogged determination to reignite his career since coming back from a long-term pelvis injury.

The 32-year-old was released by United in the summer but National League outfit Pools are pleased they have got their man.

Hignett said on Pools' website: "He’s been here all pre-season, done all the work with us and more than proved his fitness – and I think you can see from the games he’s played what he brings to us.

“We’ve had him here with a view to him signing, but after the injury he’s had you want to see that he’s back to what he was and what he can be.

“He knows what he’s doing, he’s an experienced pro and he still has a lot to offer because he can get about the pitch and I am sure he will pop up with some vital goals for us throughout the season.

"The Carlisle fans love him and they were disappointed to see him go so he will be vitally important for us, not only with what he does on the pitch but also for how he carries himself away from it and what a good professional he is.

“He does things properly and he won’t let us down; he's a Mr Dependable and you know what you’re going to get from him week in and week out."

Kennedy added that it was a "relief" to have his future secured and said he aims to get back on the goal trail.

“It was an easy decision," he said. "I came here on trial to earn a contract and I wanted to be here. Obviously with the lads and where it is location-wise, I wanted to do well and now I want to push on and do well.

“I like to work hard, do my bit for the team and keep hold of the ball. I’ve been known to pop up with a few goals so hopefully I can do that this season as well.”

Kennedy made 107 appearances and scored 18 goals for Carlisle.

He made an emotional return to action last season after more than a year on the sidelines, the pelvis injury also requiring Kennedy to spend three months in a wheelchair.