Former Rotherham United manager Lee Clark has resigned from his position at Hartlepool United. He stepped down immediately after a 3-1 home defeat to Worthing in the National League on Saturday.
Clark, who managed Rotherham for the final nine games of last season's League One relegation campaign, took the Hartlepool job in the summer. His second spell in charge lasted exactly nine league matches, resulting in six losses and three wins. The club now sits 19th in the National League standings.
His first words to the media after the final whistle were a direct resignation. "All I want to say is, I resign from my position with immediate effect," Clark said. He expressed regret at not meeting expectations. "I wanted to give this club and the fans something to be proud of, which is what they deserve."
Clark, 43, cited the atmosphere from the home fans as a key factor in his decision. He said the abuse was not something he was prepared to endure after a long time out of the game. The former Rotherham boss had not managed in the EFL for nearly a decade before his short-term appointment at the New York Stadium in March.
During his brief time with the Millers, Clark's honest approach won over many supporters. A significant portion of the fanbase would have been open to him taking the role permanently after he replaced the dismissed Matt Hamshaw. His former side, Rotherham, are now focused on their own campaign in League Two, sitting 14th with nine points from seven games. Their recent form shows two wins, two draws and one loss from the last five outings. The team's overall stats reflect a mixed start, with the squad aiming to build consistency. Rotherham's immediate focus is on their next League Two fixtures, a home game against 9th-placed Crewe on 26 September, where they will look to add to their points tally.
Clark's final act at Hartlepool was to wish the club well for the future. He brought in former Rotherham striker Jordan Hugill during the close season, though the forward is yet to score for his new side. Hartlepool, under American ownership since January, are aiming to return to the EFL after a four-year absence. The club's current squad will now prepare for their next National League match without Clark at the helm, as the search for a new manager begins immediately.
Background and full detail: Rotherham Advertiser
