HARTLEPOOL UNITED are searching for a new goalkeeper after selling first-choice Trevor Carson to Scottish Premier League club Motherwell.

Carson’s departure is a blow and Pools released a statement indicating they tried to keep him by offering improved terms.

After being part of the Northern Ireland squad over the last 18 months, his exit always seemed likely after slipping into the National League, but there was a push to retain his services.

Pools have done a deal for an undisclosed fee and Carson leaves after spending the last two years at Victoria Park, moving there after relegation from the Football League with Cheltenham.

They allowed Carson's deputy Adam Bartlett to leave for Darlington last season and had Joe Fryer on loan from Middlesbrough for the closing weeks and months. 

Carson was a big miss when he underwent shoulder surgery in January and was forced out of action for around four months. He rushed himself back and played in the final two games of the season as Pools were unable to prevent relegation.

New boss Craig Harrison wanted to keep Carson at the club but a statement on the club’s website read: “The club was keen to retain the services of Carson for the upcoming season and had offered him a new contract on improved terms in a bid to keep him in the North-East.

“The club reluctantly agreed to release Trevor in order to support his international career.

“Pools would like to thank Carson for his efforts during his time with the club and wish him the very best for his future and look forward to seeing him achieve his full potential in his international call-ups.”

Motherwell manager Steve Robinson was part of Michael O’Neill’s coaching staff with Northern Ireland before taking over towards the end of last season. 

Carson said: “It’s been on going a couple of weeks and been on and off. I’ve wanted it sorted before I go on holiday next week and I can switch my phone off now and relax before pre-season.

“I had other options, but this is a great club and career-wise it’s a chance to play at a great platform. I’m at the point in my career I need to kick on and progress and here there’s no better club to challenge for the top six. 

“I know the gaffer here, one of the main factors at a new club is about settling in and I know what Robbo demands. I like to be challenged every day and I like how he demands that.

“It will be a step up for what I played last year, I’ve played 100-odd games in League One and players come up from that standard and kick on.

“I know the potential here and I’m using the club, personally I’ve done well the last two years, but League Two is brushed under the carpet a bit.’’