Matty Dolan: Hartlepool United sign midfielder on loan from Newport County

Matty Dolan was Newport County's player of the season in 2020-21

Hartlepool United have signed midfielder Matty Dolan on loan from Newport County, in a deal to be turned permanent for the 2023-24 season.

The 29-year-old rejoins his hometown club having previously had two stints on loan with Pools in 2013 and 2015.

Dolan also had spells at Bradford, Yeovil and the Exiles, where he made 221 appearances since 2017 and captained the side last term.

"I am here to help this team climb the division," he told the club website.

"From my first training session, I can see there is more then enough to get us out of this situation".

Pools are 22nd in League Two, three points above the relegation places with 24 games played.

Dolan's departure from Newport came on the same day that fellow midfielder Robbie Willmott rejoined former County boss Michael Flynn at Walsall.

Coughlan on Dolan and Willmott

Newport boss Graham Coughlan told BBC Wales:

"I woke up on Thursday morning and naturally I didn't want them to leave. To be honest I tried to talk the two of them down.

"Yes one, Robbie, was on the bench and wanted to play first team football. With Matty it was obviously a family reason.

"I've been chatting with Matty for a few weeks, trying to talk him through it, and obviously help him out with the family situation. I get it, I understand it. I understand his reasons.

"In an ideal world you'd want them to stay but I fully respect the reasoning of both players. Yes I was sad to see them go but we move on and we thank them for their service.

"They've been brilliant to us even though they weren't playing in the team. They were great lads off the pitch as well, the upmost professional standards.

"It was obviously a sad day for not only myself but the players as well and I'm sure for the supporters as well."

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