Pool are set to lose their Nelson touch

Jun 16 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

CHRIS Turner’s rebuilding project at Hartlepool United has been dealt a blow with the news that long-serving defender Michael Nelson is set to quit the club.

After six years of excellent service at Victoria Park, the 29-year-old has turned down the club’s offer of a new contract in search of a new challenge.

And with rumours of interest from Scottish Premier League side Hibernian – as well as Pool’s League One rivals Huddersfield Town and Norwich City – he is expected to find a new club shortly.

Pool director of sport Turner, who has signed four players as he looks to rebuild the club after a disappointing campaign, admits Nelson’s decision is a “disappointment” but insists he leaves with the best wishes of all at Pool.

“I am disappointed that Michael has decided to leave the club but I can understand his decision,” Turner said.

“This could be a big time for him to move on and he’ll leave the football club with our best wishes after giving us six good years of service.

“While I am disappointed, we have to move on now and look to the future and hopefully we can have successful times ahead despite the loss of Michael Nelson.”