Lee Clark has resigned as Hartlepool United head coach with immediate effect, stepping down straight after a 3-1 home defeat to Worthing left the club sliding further down the National League table. The loss marked a third consecutive defeat and sixth in seven matches, dropping Pools to 18th ahead of Saturday's other afternoon fixtures.
Clark took charge at Victoria Park over the summer, arriving after a brief stint with Rotherham United at the end of last season. His tenure quickly came under pressure as results faltered, and frustration among supporters boiled over during Saturday's game, with fans calling for him to go as the team's slump continued.
Speaking to BBC Radio Tees, Clark confirmed his decision directly, saying he was resigning from his position with immediate effect. The former Newcastle, Sunderland and Fulham player explained that his aim had been to give the club and its fans something to be proud of, something he felt they deserved, but admitted he simply hadn't been able to deliver that.
Clark, who has also previously managed Huddersfield Town and Birmingham City, added that he had been excited to take the job and had wanted to be the man to help restore Hartlepool to where he believes they belong, but conceded things hadn't worked out as hoped.
The departure adds to a turbulent period off the pitch as well. Hartlepool were taken over in January by American businessman Landon Smith, with the club aiming to end a four-year stay outside the Football League. Clark's exit now means Hartlepool must search for their ninth permanent manager or head coach during that time in the National League.
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