McLean tips big-spending Hartlepool for National League title push

Former Conference striker turned pundit Aaron McLean believes Hartlepool United’s summer recruitment drive has put them among the National League title favourites heading into the new season.

According to The Non-League Football Paper, McLean has been impressed by how boss Lee Clark has strengthened his squad at Victoria Park as new American owner Landon Smith pushes for an immediate return to the EFL.

Big-name additions at Victoria Park

Hartlepool’s recruitment has been headlined by the arrival of former West Ham and Norwich City forward Jordan Hugill, a marquee signing for the non-league scene.

Clark has also brought in Jack Nolan, who netted 19 goals for Morecambe last season, along with Will Harris, who found the net 25 times for FC Halifax Town in the previous campaign.

The trio of proven National League goalscorers gives Hartlepool a considerable attacking threat as they aim to challenge for promotion back into League Two.

McLean’s verdict

McLean, who made his name as a prolific frontman in non-league football before spells at Aldershot Town and Ebbsfleet United, has watched Hartlepool’s ambitious summer business closely and views them as genuine contenders.

New owner Landon Smith has made no secret of his desire to see Hartlepool return to the Football League at the earliest opportunity, and the calibre of Clark’s summer signings suggests the club are backing that ambition with significant investment.

With the National League season fast approaching, Hartlepool’s rivals will be watching closely to see whether the north-east club can turn their summer spending into silverware and a swift promotion push.

Read more: Altrincham land Barnet title winner Owen Evans in goalkeeper coup