As featured on NewsNow: Football news

Exclusive: Gordon Young reveals rejecting several offers to join Hartlepool

Gordon Young's career has seen him travel the world, but his latest appointment has him return to England after 13 years.

He stays close with manager Paul Hartley as the pair moved from Cove Rangers, where they achieved back-to-back promotions into Scotland's Championship, and signed with English League Two side Hartlepool.

Speaking to Tribal Football, Young details the unfolding of moving from Cove Rangers to Hartlepool. He deeply values his time and success he and Hartley had with Cove, but relishes the opportunity to work with him in England.

"Personally I had offers elsewhere," Young said. "There was a job in Helsinki, or I had the option to return to the USA. We went away to Portugal for a few days, soaked up some sun and a few celebratory drinks. We'd just won promotion into the Championship with Cove so the club granted us some extra time off.

"We had a terrific time at Cove Rangers, winning promotion into the Championship. Our stock was high and we have to make the most of it. Hartlepool recognised that they had a duo in Paul and I that had multiple attributes producing, developing and recruiting the right players as well. It was quickly a no brainer for me, they valued my opinion."


For Young, the appointment at Hartlepool is much more than another managerial gig. It gives him the chance to continue his passion of developing players. Throughout the years one of Young's main priorities has been to help prepare players for the rigours of first team football.

Hartlepool shared the same vision for development as Young and Hartley do, and their commitment to the surrounding area was also a big attraction for Young.

"It's a one club town and city so the catchment area was very important. My expertise is transitioning players from the youth channels and migrating to first team. In my career it's not only a big part to play but at the forefront of my priorities."

Video of the day:

About the author

Chris Sermeno

×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

  1. Go Ad-Free
  2. Faster site experience
  3. Support great writing
  4. Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free
×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free