JASON KENNEDY will be allowed to leave Hartlepool United, if a deal can be arranged to suit.

The midfielder, signed by Craig Hignett, has not featured under Dave Challinor and has been left out of recent matchday squads.

His last outing was a six minute substitute appearance at Ebbsfleet on November 16.

The 33-year-old has made 18 appearances for Pools after impressing and earning a contract in pre-season.

But his days at the club appear numbered.

Boss Dave Challinor has praised the midfielder, and admitted: “Jason is fine, a really tough one and we spoke just before Christmas. A brilliant pro, great lad and if any players need guidance on how to carry themselves then look to him.

“But we both agreed that I don’t see him as a sub, as daft as it sounds because he’s not an impact type player form the bench. He’s another midfielder who is similar to what we have.

“We will speak again and if he needs to ho out and get games or can look after himself, then I’ve no issue with that, then I’ve no issue with that.’’

Pools have an injury concern over Josh Hawkes. He missed the New Year’s Day game with Harrogate amid concerns of a hernia problem.

Challinor said: “We have to wait and see and look at him. If there’s signs of a hernia then can we manage his load to ease the discomfort.

“He will be gutted if he misses out on games, but I’m not being pessimistic. I’m trying to be optimistic that the problem can settle down.’’

Luke Molyneux made his return from action in midweek, appearing as late substitute against Harrogate after being out of action since being floored in pre-season.

He needed two ankle operations and is still some way from being able to start games.

Challinor said: “Luke is coming back from injury. He could be big in the weeks ahead and he is different to what we have.

“One thing I notice in the squad is we aren’t full of match winners and Luke is one of them. It’s about getting him back to a level to complete longer and safely and if he can have a positive impact in the last four months then brilliant.

“We are trying to bring forward-thinking players in and he is one. We know from what we have seen then he can bring a threat to the side.’’