HARTLEPOOL United have confirmed the departure of first team coach Clint Hill.

He wasn’t in the dugout at Adams Park with the former QPR defender holding talks with the club regarding his future.

Hill only joined the club last month under Dave Challinor replacing Joe Parkinson who left for personal reasons.

Challinor has since gone on to leave the club to be appointed as Stockport County manager. It remained to be seen whether Hill would follow him to Greater Manchester but while that possibility remains up in the air, Hill’s future at Hartlepool United has come to a swift end.

Hill said: “‘’I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my short time at Hartlepool United working with a great set of lads and staff, and also getting to experience the famous atmosphere at the Vic. I wish everybody connected to the club every success this season and for the future.’’

After being quizzed by BBC Radio Tees Sport on his absence, interim manager Antony Sweeney said: “Clint’s in discussions with the club regarding his future. I’m not 100% sure where those discussions are at as they stand, we’ve had other things to concentrate on.

“What I will say about Clint is he’s been absolutely fantastic since he’s been into the club. Really difficult circumstances as well because it wasn’t long before Dave (Challinor) left and he come in as part of Dave’s staff so I can only thank him because he’s been nothing but professional.

“He’s been a massive help when he has been here but I’m also understanding that sometimes you have to make decisions that are best for yourself. Whether that’s yourself, your family or location. Whatever that is, I don’t know Clint’s decisions but what I will say is he is the ultimate professional and if he’s no longer going to be out the club then I wish him all the best.”