Keith Curle: ex-Carlisle United boss signs new Hartlepool United deal

Curle has been acting as interim manager at League Two's bottom side since September.

He has now been handed the reins permanently with the challenge of steering the Monkey Hangers away from relegation danger.

The north east club are two points adrift at the foot of the table.

Curle's new deal keeps him at the Suit Direct Stadium until the end of next season.

The 59-year-old, who is assisted by his former Carlisle No2 Colin West, told the club website: "I am delighted we have agreed a deal.

"We have a good foundation here to build something special.

"I want to create a good working environment where everyone is welcome and works hard for this football club.

"We have a good group who are improving every week and myself and Colin have built a good relationship with the stakeholders with the club.

"We know this club shouldn’t be where it is at the moment and we want to go on a journey, with the backing of the chairman to get it where it belongs."

Pools chairman Raj Singh said the deal would give the club "continuity and a chance to properly plan and invest into the January window".

He added: "Keith and Colin came into the club at a very difficult time, when we had not won a single league game, inherited a squad that has also be decimated with injuries.

"They have gone about their business in a very calm manner and they have quickly gained confidence from the staff and players and have managed to bring everybody together at the club, which has reflected in some improved results and performances.

"I am really excited to see what they can achieve once they’ve had the luxury of the backing in the transfer windows as of their predecessors."

Curle, who managed Carlisle from 2014-18, saw his Pools side lose 3-1 to Carlisle at the Suit Direct Stadium in October.

Their scheduled visit to Brunton Park on January 7 has been postponed due to Hartlepool's involvement in the FA Cup third round, with a new date yet to be confirmed.