Micky Barron believes Hartlepool United have enjoyed 'a really positive year' under new owner Landon Smith

American businessman and investor Smith, who is the co-founder of real estate company Tailwind Group, completed his takeover of the club from the controversial Raj Singh on New Year's Eve 2025.

Although Singh, who is likely to be remembered as one of the most divisive figures in the club's entire history, stepped in to save Pools from the looming threat of administration and even potential footballing oblivion in April 2018, the final years of his tumultuous tenure were overshadowed by various off-field crises as well as almost unparalleled levels of division and discontent amongst Pools fans.