Matthew Bates: Hartlepool sign ex-Middlesbrough defender

Bates played for Middlesbrough between 2004 and 2012

Hartlepool United have signed former Middlesbrough defender Matthew Bates, following his departure from League One side Bradford City this summer.

Bates, 27, trained with Pools last season before opting for the Bantams on a permanent basis last August.

However, Pools manager Colin Cooper has now secured an undisclosed deal to bring Bates to Victoria Park.

The Stockton-born centre-back began his career at Boro but injuries limited him to 126 appearances in seven years.

He then joined Bristol City in November 2012 before the move to Bradford.