Hartlepool United have strengthened their defensive options by recalling Cam Darcy from his loan spell and are linked with a loan move for West Bromwich Albion midfielder Cole Deeming. The developments come as head coach Lee Clark looks to address a three-game losing streak ahead of Saturday's National League fixture against Woking at Victoria Park.
Darcy, a defender, was initially sent to National League North side Spennymoor Town on a six-month loan deal that was scheduled to run until January 2027. After just one month, Hartlepool have exercised their option to bring him back into the fold. The young defender featured in all six of Spennymoor's opening league fixtures this season, starting five of them. His return provides immediate cover, particularly with Maxim Kouogun sidelined by an ankle injury and Corey McKeown out with a foot problem. You can view the full list of unavailable players on our injuries page.
What is the latest transfer link?
According to a report from the Hartlepool Mail, the club is showing interest in securing a loan deal for West Bromwich Albion's 19-year-old midfielder Cole Deeming. The proposed move would see the teenager join Hartlepool until the new year. Deeming recently agreed a new one-year contract with the Championship club and gained senior experience last season during a loan spell at Cheltenham Town in League Two.
How does Lee Clark view the squad situation?
Head coach Lee Clark addressed the team's form and the transfer market in a pre-match press conference at Maiden Castle, with his comments later broadcast on BBC Tees Sport. Clark acknowledged the instinct to seek external solutions during a poor run but stressed the need to work with the existing group. "Well, listen, I know how it can work and people just think, 'oh, we're losing, let's go into the transfer market,'" Clark said. He added a note of caution about squad size, stating, "You can't just keep stockpiling players."
Where does Hartlepool stand in the league?
The urgency for improvement is clear from the club's current league position. After five games, Hartlepool sit 14th in the National League table with six points, having recorded two wins and three losses. Their recent form shows three consecutive defeats to Sutton United, Eastleigh, and Halifax Town. The team has scored four goals and conceded four, resulting in a neutral goal difference. They currently trail league leaders Boreham Wood by seven points in the early title race. Fans can track the team's progress on the official standings page.
Who is available for the Woking match?
The return of Darcy bolsters defensive options for the important home game. Also, midfielder Neo Eccleston is available again after serving a one-match suspension that kept him out of the midweek defeat to Halifax. Clark will hope their reintegration can help stem the recent poor results. The match against Woking presents an opportunity to get back on track before the gap to the top grows any wider. Supporters looking for team news and updates can join the Hartlepool Mail's new dedicated WhatsApp HUFC Channel. Hartlepool United host Woking at Victoria Park on Saturday afternoon.
