Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips ‘delighted’ to be given Hartlepool United challenge

Kevin Phillips, a legend of Sunderland, has accepted an invitation to become manager of National League team Hartlepool United, and he is prepared to take on the challenges that lie ahead.

After leading South Shields to the Northern Premier League title and ending his 18-month reign at the end of the previous season, the former Black Cats striker had a great first season as a manager.

Following his departure at the 1st Cloud Arena, Phillips was linked to other openings after being identified as a potential successor at Solihull Moors, Walsall, and Burton Albion.

But once John Askey left the team, Phillips was identified as a leading candidate to replace the outgoing Pools boss. A deal was signed in time to see the former Birmingham City and Aston Villa player witness his new team win 1-0 against Ebbsfleet United on Saturday.

After Pools moved seven points clear of the drop zone thanks to a goal from midfielder Anthony Mancini just after the hour mark, Phillips, whose hiring was confirmed, now set his sights on raising his new team’s league standing in the upcoming weeks.

He said: “I’m delighted to join Hartlepool United and I can’t thank the Chairman enough for the opportunity to take charge of this fantastic club.

“I’m familiar with the North East having played and managed up here, so I know the area and the passion of the people from up here.

“I’m eager to get started and am thrilled about the task. We need results, and we know what we need to do to move up the league table. I want to provide some new ideas to help us get there.

“We will be surrounded by a huge fan base at Suit Direct Stadium, and I can’t wait to meet them.”

Lennie Lawrence’s three-week tenure as Pools manager also ends with this appointment, and chairman Raj Singh acknowledged it took longer than anticipated to find Askey’s replacement.

“A thorough process has been conducted to profile and evaluate multiple candidates,” he stated. Although it has taken longer than I had anticipated—mostly because of the uncertainty that the Club is currently experiencing—I am happy to report that Kevin’s credentials have finally been obtained.

Phillips will take charge of his new side for the first time on Tuesday night when struggling Kidderminster Harriers travel to the North East.