National League play-off hopefuls Hartlepool United have confirmed the appointment of Nicky Featherstone as their new manager.
The veteran Pools midfielder had been in caretaker charge and has now been rewarded for an impressive interim spell.
Featherstone, 37, stepped up after Simon Grayson's sacking in October and has guided the Monkey Hangers on a seven-game unbeaten run in the league.
After leading Pools up to eighth in the table, two points outside the play-off places, he has been handed the permanent reins until the end of the season, with a club option that could see his deal extended pending a review.
Featherstone will continue to be assisted by Elliott Dickman and Adam Smith, who have been part of the interim coaching team at Victoria Park.
We are delighted to announce Nicky Featherstone as our permanent First Team Manager! ✍️
Read more below.#HUFC
➡️ https://t.co/SY8t2aRdFb pic.twitter.com/Q2ugCWTxiB— Hartlepool United (@Official_HUFC) December 5, 2025
"His appointment represents an important step in the club’s football strategy and reflects the direction being shaped across the first team and football operations," said Hartlepool in a statement.
Featherstone said: “It is a tremendous honour to be appointed manager of this football club. Pools means a huge amount to me. I care deeply about this club, about the people here and about what it represents."
Other candidates for the position had reportedly included the former Carlisle head coach Chris Beech.
Joe Monks, Hartlepool's head of football operations, added: “We conducted a thorough process and spoke to a wide range of candidates from the English football pyramid including experienced EFL managers but Nicky’s leadership and understanding of the club made him the stand-out choice.
"We are confident he is the right person to lead the next phase of our football development and take this team forward in a way that reflects the ambition of the club and its supporters.”
Featherstone's first game in permanent charge comes at home to Yeovil Town on Saturday. The north east club will host Carlisle on February 25, having lost 3-1 at Brunton Park under Grayson on October 1 .
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