Lee Clark resigns as Hartlepool United head coach

Lee Clark has resigned as head coach of Hartlepool United with immediate effect. The decision followed a 3-1 home defeat to Worthing, which marked the team's third consecutive loss.

The club has been struggling significantly, suffering six defeats in their last seven matches. This poor run of form has left the team sitting in 18th place in the National League standings before the remainder of the weekend's fixtures.

I resign from my position with immediate effect. I wanted to give this club and the fans something to be proud of, what they deserve, but I haven't been able to do that unfortunately. Lee Clark

Clark, who previously played for Newcastle, Sunderland, and Fulham, took the job in the summer following a brief spell at Rotherham United. During Saturday's game, supporters had voiced their frustration as the team's slump continued.

Since being taken over by American businessman Landon Smith in January, the club has been pushing for promotion back to the English Football League. The search is now underway for what will be the club's ninth permanent manager or head coach since they exited the EFL four years ago.