Hartlepool United Set To Retain Forward

Hartlepool United are expected to retain the services of striker Mani Dieseruvwe, heading into the 2024/25 National League campaign despite social media reports linking him with a move away.

The 29-year-old played a crucial role for Hartlepool United last season in what was his debut campaign following his switch from fellow National League side FC Halifax Town.

However, the forward is expected to see out the remainder of his contract with the Pools rather than pushing for a permanent exit throughout the summer.

How has Dieseruvwe fared for Hartlepool?

Since arriving on a free transfer last summer, the 29-year-old has made 39 league appearances for Hartlepool United, scoring an impressive 23 goals and providing eight additional assists.

The forward hit double figures for Halifax in the 2022/23 campaign and has gone several steps forward under then-boss Kevin Phillips although the club have since changed hands.

However, journalist Rob Law has confirmed via Twitter (X), that despite interest from elsewhere, the Pools striker is expected to stay with the football club and it would take a ‘big offer’ to tempt Hartlepool into selling him.

Rumour shut down

Law also poured cold water on a rumour suggesting that League One side Mansfield Town wanted to sign the forward this summer.

In a separate tweet, Law stated…

‘In addition, wild “reports” linking him with a move to Mansfield are false.

‘Mansfield do not intend to bid for the Pools striker.’

Can Dieseruvwe fire Hartlepool into promotion contention?

A series of inconsistent runs, injuries and suspensions saw Hartlepool’s play-off quest grind to a fierce halt last season, but the club are likely to aim for a step further during the 2024/25 campaign.

Since the previous season ended, Hartlepool have hired a new manager in the form of Darren Sarll to replace the outgoing Kevin Phillips, whilst the club has also said goodbye to the likes of Josh Umerah and Callum Cooke.

With several attackers having left the side, players such as Dieseruvwe are likely to inherit an increased level of pressure upon their shoulders but the forward’s goal-scoring form could help him to settle any nerves.

The 29-year-old managed 31 goal contributions in 39 league outings last season and if the Pools can keep him in the building while improving around him, that number could find a way to increase again.

If it does, it’s likely to guarantee Hartlepool more points than they achieved last season which would spark the chance for the club to secure a top seven finish next season.