Micky Barron calls on Hartlepool United's experienced players to 'step up and lead the team' as Pools bid to turn dismal recent form around

Just nine games into the National League season, Pools, who were touted as potential title contenders ahead of the campaign, are on the hunt for a new head coach after Lee Clark's dramatic resignation at the weekend.

Clark, who was only appointed in May, announced his shock decision in the immediate aftermath of Saturday's 3-1 loss to Worthing, his side's sixth defeat in seven games.

Now, Pools, who are currently languishing just a point above the National League relegation zone, are under pressure to salvage a season that had seemed to promise so much under new owner Landon Smith.